AS PREGNANCY creates a lot of metabolic changes in the body of the pregnant woman, the insulin- a hormone that facilitates the entry of sugar/glucose into the cells to be utilized as source of energy-that was working before is now/may not be able to carry out its function adequately leading to the now well-recognized hyperglycemia-excess sugar in the blood- and glycosuria-excess sugar in the urine.
At this juncture, other hormones related to pregnancy may worsen the situation as exemplified by the placenta which may contribute to the so-called insulin resistance- a condition in which insulin levels may be sufficient, but for some reasons, insulin is unable to stimulate/ease the entry of glucose into the cells.
Each woman should have a specific plan designed by her doctor/dietitian for her needs, although there are general ways to stay healthy with gestational diabetes. By testing how much sugar is in the blood, it is easier to keep it within the healthy range.
Self-monitoring of glucose levels involves, with clean hands pricking the finger with a small needle or lancet, placing the drop of blood on the target spot of a special testing device called a glucose meter or unto a strip of paper attached to the device. Fasting glucose level is done first thing in the morning, before breakfast- which should be lower than 5.3, one hour after eating should be lower than 7.8 and two hours after eating should be lower than 6.7.
Diet obviously occupies a premium value in gestational diabetes, with special focus on carbohydrates, striking a delicate balance of just enough to provide the source of energy and limiting it so as not to cause problematic excess sugar levels. Fiber slows down digestion and absorption of nutrients, thus help in the control of sugar.
Fiber can be obtained from veggies and fruits. Dr. Mary Ann Lim-Abrahan, one of the foremost endocrinologists in the country and recognized by her peers worldwide, strongly advise to keep it easy on the following fruits- atis, lychees, longan, chico, cantaloupe or honeydew melon. To avoid sudden surge of blood sugar, it’s better to have small frequent feedings rather than huge- stomach-bulging meals.
Moderate physical activity is not the same as daily routine activities such as shopping, doing household chores or washing the dishes. Leisurely daily walking, prenatal low-impact activities like aerobics and swimming help control blood sugar. Common sense dictates that if the woman feels faint. Dizzy or extremely hot, the probably, she’s overdoing it, stop and rest. In other words, “listen to your body.”
A satisfying sexual relationship is part and parcel of a happy marriage and that issue should be discussed openly by the couple with their family physician.
Six weeks after the baby is born, the mother should have a blood test. Women who have had gestational diabetes have a 40 percent higher chance than women who have not had it of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. If there are plans to get pregnant again, have a blood sugar test up to three months before conceiving to ensure that the blood glucose level is back to normal. Children whose mothers had gestational diabetes are at higher risk for obesity, abnormal glucose tolerance and full-blown diabetes.
Like all mothers, women with gestational diabetes should breastfeed their babies, with mothers’ milk providing the right balance of nutrients and protection against certain illnesses, and at the same time, benefitting the mother by using up some extra calories stored during pregnancy.
Losing weight after the baby is born enhances the over-all health of the mother and is one way to reduce chances of developing diabetes later in life. To our dear womenfolk, have a healthy normal pregnancy!