For the pregnant woman nothing is more important then the health and well being of her unborn baby. Gestational diabetes is a disease that all soon to be mothers need to be aware of because if left untreated it can have serious health consequences for both the mother and baby. Because of this risk all mothers who are under a doctors or midwives care are routinely screened during their second trimester for gestational diabetes.
The majority of women who have gestational diabetes are unaware of their condition because most of the time the normal symptoms associated with diabetes are not present. The more overt signs include frequent urination, extreme thirst and hunger, and fatigue, all of which can be caused by high blood sugar levels. Whether they show symptoms or not the Glucose Challenge Test given during the second trimester will rule out whether or not diabetes should be a concern during a woman’s pregnancy.
The most effective way to manage gestational diabetes is through a combination of diet and exercise. This only makes sense because these methods are the most easily accomplished help control high blood sugar levels. The first thing that must be done is replacing simple sugars in the diet with complex carbohydrates. This means avoiding high sugar drinks and foods such as soft drinks, fruit juices, candy, and refined bread products. Simple sugars are quickly assimilated into the blood stream and are a major cause of sugar spikes, which can be dangerous for both mother and baby.
Complex carbohydrates, on the other hand, from sources such as fruits (which still must eaten in moderation because of their high sugar content) and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes take longer to digest and provide a sustained source of dietary energy, keeping blood glucose levels at a more normal state. It is also important to balance carbohydrate intake with the proper amount of protein and fiber. Eating a healthy, nutritious diet is important for all pregnant women, but much more so for those with gestational diabetes.
The other half of managing diabetes during pregnancy is through exercise. The need for insulin is reduced by exercise because the uptake of glucose by muscle cells is increased during exercise resulting in improved blood sugar control. Exercise will also help to reduce the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in the body, reducing the risk of certain cardiovascular problems that are associated with diabetes.
Walking, yoga, swimming, and expectant mother aerobics classes are all good ways to get the exercise you need. Just thirty minutes a day several times a week is a good starting point. It is important to discuss any exercise program with you doctor before you start, but unless there are complications that prevent getting regular exercise staying in shape while pregnant is good for both the mother and baby. Just remember to keep the exercise routine low-impact.
Gestational diabetes can be effectively controlled with a combination of diet and exercise. If you are diagnosed with this condition it is important to work closely with you health care providers to keep it under control, for both the baby’s and your own well being.