Gestational Diabetes Maintenance Sugar Levels

Gestational diabetes is considered one of the most common complications during pregnancy. It presents no symptoms thus making it very important to test. Most incidences of gestational diabetes can be controlled with a modified diet and exercise.

Carbohydrates in food convert into glucose within the body. Glucose is an important source of energy.

Glucose is absorbed by the cells through a hormone called insulin which is produced by the pancreas. Sometimes there is an imbalance, resulting in glucose not being effectively absorbed and remaining in the blood stream. Sugar levels in the blood rise. Such a condition is known as hyperglycemia, or in this case, gestational diabetes.

Gestational diabetes maintenance requires planning and discipline. Since carbohydrates are the main source of glucose, it is important to know how much carbohydrate you eat. This is called “Carbohydrate Counting”. Eating your meals on time is again important, which means having breakfast, lunch and dinner, with snacks in between, at the same time every day. It’s also important to remember to have a snack before going to bed to prevent blood glucose levels from dropping while asleep.

Exercise and activities helps lower your blood glucose levels. Most pregnant women require an additional 300 calories per day.

Planning a meal should include a good variety of different foods from each food group. Limiting or eliminating sweets from diet will help with the blood glucose regulations. It is important to eliminate sugary or sweet beverages like soda and fruit juice and eat proteins with carbohydrates. Foods high in fiber like beans, oatmeal, oat bran and some fruits and veggies contain natural fiber which is highly recommended.

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Gestational Diabetes Maintenance Sugar Levels