ABOUT DIABETES

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus


Pregnant women due to changes in hormonal activity, require higher levels of insulin to keep their blood sugars at normal level. The women who can't produce the required higher insulin levels develop GDM. Usually blood sugars become normal after the delivery in most of the women except few. Up to 40% of women with gestational diabetes develop full-blown diabetes within 5 to 10 years after delivery if they don't maintain healthy lifestyle.


The risk factors for gestational diabetes:


  • Over weight and Obesity.
  • Family history of diabetes.
  • Gestational diabetes in previous pregnancy.
  • Age over than 25yrs.
  • Stillbirth or miscarriages in previous pregnancies.
  • Large baby in previous pregnancy.

Complications


Uncontrolled gestational diabetes may increase the risk of:

For the baby:


  • Congenital malformations and spontaneous abortions
  • Excess growth leading to cesarean section.
  • Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), shortly after birth.
  • Respiratory distress syndrome.
  • Jaundice.
  • Developmental problems.
  • Type 2 diabetes and obesity later in life.

For the mother:


  • Pre-eclampsia.
  • Requires a cesarean section.
  • Urinary tract infections.
  • Future diabetes. More likely to develop diabetes if not careful.

Management


Controlling the blood sugar level is essential to keep the baby healthy and avoid complications during delivery.


Blood sugar monitoring


Regular blood sugar monitoring, preferably with glucometer is the key and maintain blood sugars at:

Fasting blood sugar 70 - 100 mgs
  • 1 hour 100 - 155 mgs
  • 2hour 90 - 130 mgs

Diet


Eating the right kind and amount of food is vital:

  • Take 45 to 60% of the calories as carbohydrates, 15 to 25% as protein, and 20 to 30% as fat.
  • Eat small portions at regular intervals, for example 3 small meals and 2-3 small snacks.
  • Choose less sugar and high fiber food like fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and bran cereals.
  • Eat low-fat or non-fat milk, yogurt.
  • Avoid concentrated sweets and sugars, including fruit juices.
  • Avoid foods and beverages with added sugar, honey, jaggery, chocolates, jams and jellies.

Physical activity


Exercise is must, if there is no contraindication Aim for 30 minutes of moderate physical activity in a day. Walking and cycling are often good choices during pregnancy. Even ordinary activities like housework and gardening may be helpful.


Medication


If diet and exercise aren't enough, insulin injections are required to control the blood sugar levels. For some women, oral medications such as metformin may be given under medical supervision.



      OPD TIME

Dr. Gade's Diabetes Care Clinic,
Sukhwani Chamber,Near Ratna Hotel,Ambedkar Chowk,
Station Road,Pimpri,
Pune-411018.
Available on: Tuesday & Friday

Mob. No: 7719907788
Timing:11.00 to 2.00 p.m.