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In light of mothers day, we would like to talk about and spread awareness of another type of diabetes endured by many mothers. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a variant of diabetes that can occur in some women during pregnancy. It is the fastest growing diabetes in Australia and affects nearly 10 percent of pregnant women each year in America according to the American Diabetes Association. It is recommended that women be tested for GDM at 24-28 weeks of pregnancy (unless you have a pre-existing diabetes diagnosis). By working with your doctor, you can still have a healthy, happy baby and with appropriate treatment, not develop diabetes after the baby is born.
According to Diabetes Australia, there is a risk for women who have had GDM in a previous pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing it again, however treatment plans include controlling your blood glucose levels and monitoring regularly. Women who are over 40, have a family history of gestational diabetes or are above the average healthy weight range you are also at higher risk of developing GDM. However with a meal plan and regular exercise routine from your doctors GDM is treatable.
Jessica Gavin is a certified culinary scientist and author who developed GDM while pregnant with her first child. She wrote about her experiences in her blog “My experience with Gestational Diabetes”. Gavin talks about “The Sweet Success Program” which was intended for her to gain control of the situation as she began her last trimester. The program taught her that there are three things to help keep blood sugar level from spiking. These are three things that she found useful:
1. Diet regulation and portion control
Through calculating your Body Mass Index a doctor can determine what would be a healthy weight gain during your pregnancy. Talk to your nutritionist for a recommended personalised meal plan to manage calorie intake and help make healthy choices to control your blood glucose levels.
2. Balancing types of food
Contrary to belief, doctors do not recommend restricting yourself completely. Carbohydrates can be consumed in regulation and eaten with foods that contain protein and fat. It is also important to consume lots of water to stay hydrated.
3. Timing, eating and glucose testing
Check with your doctor before you change your meal plans, however Gavin found it best to eat 6 small meals throughout the day, a few hours apart. Also, test your blood glucose levels regularly and follow your doctors’ advice regarding how to manage spikes or lows in levels.
For many women, being diagnosed with gestational diabetes can be daunting. However, it is important to remember that the majority of women with gestational diabetes have a healthy pregnancy, conventional delivery and a healthy baby. By following your doctors advice, it can be managed through a healthy eating plan, regular exercise and maintaining blood glucose levels.
Glucology Store was born in Sydney Australia. Our mission is to help improve the lives of people living with diabetes by providing the best possible support products and information.
Remember to always seek advice from your medical practitioner before changing anything about your diabetes management. The above information is not medical advice.
