Gestational Diabetes

Gestational Diabetes occurs in pregnant women. One may develop gestational diabetes for the first time during pregnancy or may have a mild undiagnosed case of diabetes that worsens during pregnancy.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a condition of abnormally raised blood sugar levels that may occur in the second part of the pregnancy and blood sugar levels normalizes once the baby is born.

High blood sugar is caused when the mother cannot produce enough insulin (a pregnant woman's insulin needs are two to three times that of normal).

Some women with gestational diabetes may need no treatment, some need a strict diet and others may need insulin injections.

Tests for gestational diabetes

All women are screened for gestational diabetes at their 24 to 28 week routine checkup.

Women who are at higher risk may be tested more often.

Risk factors :

• over the age of 25 years
• a family history of type 2 diabetes
• have had gestational diabetes before
• have previously had polycystic ovary syndrome

Foods to eat:

1. Include protein in all meals.
2. Include fruits and vegetables in daily diet.
3. Carbohydrates in minimum.
4. Fat intake to be monitored.
5. Avoid processed foods.
6. Monitor portion size to ensure you don't over eat.

Foods to avoid:

• Biscuits
• Sweets
• Cake
• Soft drinks
• Desserts