During pregnancy, it is possible to experience high blood sugar levels and develop gestational diabetes. The cause is unknown; however, there are measures to reduce your risk such as choosing a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and exercising.
Handling Gestational Diabetes
Women who have high blood pressure, are overweight, or have a family history of diabetes are at a greater risk of developing gestational diabetes.
Those who experienced gestational diabetes during one pregnancy are also more likely to develop it in subsequent pregnancies.
A diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and limiting refined carbohydrates and sweets is crucial to controlling gestational diabetes. Medication and daily insulin injections may also be suggested by your doctor as another management tool.
Gestational diabetes typically resolves after giving birth if it is properly controlled during the pregnancy.
Women who experienced gestational diabetes are advised to exclusively breastfeed their newborn. This allows for better control of the mother’s weight and future diabetes risk.
Concerned?
For more information about gestational diabetes and testing for it during pregnancy, consult with your provider.
