My hemoglobin levels were normal, but I failed the 1-hour glucose test. Boo!!! Perhaps, I suspected something having been more fatigued and thirsty lately, and a little light-headed after drinking the sugar solution at the clinic. Next week, I need to take a 3-hour test which requires 12-hours of fasting, several blood draws and three more glasses of the so-called fruit punch. I'll be limiting my Christmas cookie consumption until further notice!
Gestational diabetes is a condition that occurs during pregnancy. Like other forms of diabetes, gestational diabetes affects the body's ability to maintain proper levels of glucose, which is the body's main source of fuel. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert glucose and other food into energy. Diabetes of any kind raises blood sugar levels, which can be harmful to mother and fetus. If diabetes is not treated, the fetus receives too much blood sugar and grows larger than it should. Large babies often can't be delivered vaginally and must be delivered via C-section, which poses its own set of risks for mother and baby. After birth, babies can have breathing problems, low blood sugar and jaundice. (Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and tissues caused by excess bilirubin in the blood, which is produced by the normal breakdown of red blood cells.)
Treatment for gestational diabetes includes eating a carefully planned diet, getting plenty of exercise, maintaining a healthy pregnancy weight, monitoring glucose levels and, if necessary, daily insulin injections.
To help the blood sugar level to stay within a normal range (60 to 120 mg/dl):
* Avoid sugar and foods high in sugar.
* Eat complex carbohydrates such as pasta, rice, grains, cereals, crackers, bread, potatoes, dried beans and peas.
* Eat fiber-rich foods such as whole grain cereals and breads, fruits and vegetables.
* Avoid saturated fats such as fatty meats, butter, bacon, cream and whole milk cheeses.
* Eat a snack before bedtime that is protein and carbohydrate based.
Here are some goals for healthy eating during pregnancy if you have gestational diabetes:
* Eat three small meals and two or three snacks at regular times every day. Do not skip meals or snacks.
* Eat less carbohydrate at breakfast than at other meals because this is when insulin resistance is the greatest.
* Try to eat a consistent amount of carbohydrate during each meal and snack.
* If you have morning sickness, eat 1-2 servings of crackers, cereal or pretzels before getting out of bed. Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day and avoid fatty, fried and greasy foods. If you take insulin and have morning sickness, make sure you know how to treat low blood sugar.
* Choose foods high in fiber such as whole-grain breads, cereals, pasta, rice, fruits, and vegetables.
* Eat foods with less sugar and fat.
* Drink at least 8 cups (or 64 ounces) of liquids per day.
* Make sure you are getting enough vitamins and minerals in your daily diet. Ask your doctor about taking a prenatal vitamin and mineral supplement to meet the nutritional needs of your pregnancy
More Links:
Gestational Diabetes - American Diabetes Association
Testing and Diagnosis
Complications That May Affect Baby
Complications That May Affect Mom
13 years ago
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1 comment:
Here's some advice I received via email from a friend and former dietician:
Your doctor will probably refer you to a dietitian if you have diabetes. If your doctor doesn't, ask for a referral.
The last I heard for managing gestational diabetes was this: Take a standard 10 inch dinner plate and divide into 4 equal sections. 2 sections should have fruit and/or vegetable, 1 section should have protein (meat, beans, egg, nuts), 1 section should have grain - preferably whole grain. Include an 8oz glass of milk. Some people will tell you to avoid milk with diabetes, but the research I've seen says that isn't necessary, but maybe don't overdo it. Also avoid high carb foods in the morning and go for high protein.
It has been awhile since I've learned/relearned about this condition. What I typed above is what I've learned the last 2 years. Diabetic info changes quickly which is why it is good to meet with an RD, if you have it.
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