About Gestational Diabetes
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a condition that affects approximately 10% of pregnant women. Women who were not diabetic before pregnancy are diagnosed with the condition when their blood sugar levels rise during pregnancy.
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) refers to a glucose metabolism disorder that is first detected during pregnancy. During pregnancy, changes in hormone balance tend to reduce insulin action, which causes blood sugar levels to rise. It is usually diagnosed by a glucose tolerance test performed around 24-28 weeks of pregnancy.
■What causes gestational diabetes?
Why does gestational diabetes develop? Here are the main causes.
1. Hormonal influences
During pregnancy, hormones secreted from the placenta (human placental lactogen, progesterone, cortisol, etc.) increase. These hormones have the effect of raising blood sugar levels and are known to weaken the action of insulin (increase insulin resistance). This makes it easier for blood sugar levels to rise.
2. Insulin deficiency
Normally, when blood sugar levels rise in a healthy body, the pancreas secretes insulin to control blood sugar. However, the need for insulin increases during pregnancy, and if the pancreas cannot secrete enough insulin, blood sugar levels rise and cause gestational diabetes.
3. Genetic factors and physical constitution
The risk of developing gestational diabetes is also related to genetic factors and physical constitution. For example, the following people are considered to be at high risk of developing it:
- Have a family member with diabetes
-Having had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
・Obesity (high BMI)
- Have a disease such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
4. Diet and lifestyle
A high-calorie, high-sugar diet, lack of exercise, and stress also increase the risk of gestational diabetes. In particular, excessive weight gain during pregnancy can worsen insulin resistance, so care must be taken.
■Measures for gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a type of glucose metabolism disorder that occurs during pregnancy, and if not properly managed, it can affect the mother and baby. However, the risk can be reduced by adopting proper diet and exercise habits. In this article, we will explain in detail how to prevent gestational diabetes.
1. Eat a balanced diet
To manage gestational diabetes, it is important to eat a diet that does not cause a sudden rise in blood sugar levels. Keep the following points in mind.
Divide up the number of meals
By reducing the amount of food you eat at one time and dividing it into 5 to 6 meals a day, you can prevent a sudden rise in blood sugar levels.
-Incorporate low GI foods.
Choosing low GI foods such as brown rice and whole wheat bread rather than white rice or bread will help prevent your blood sugar levels from rising too much.
-Make sure you eat plenty of protein and dietary fiber.
Eating plenty of protein such as fish, meat, and soy products, and dietary fiber from vegetables and seaweed, can help slow the rise in blood sugar levels.
2. Get some exercise
Light exercise after meals is effective in controlling blood sugar levels.
Walking
Walking for about 15 to 30 minutes within 30 minutes of eating will help prevent your blood sugar level from rising.
・Maternity yoga and stretching
Try yoga and stretching exercises within your limits to improve blood flow.
3. Be aware of proper weight management
Excessive weight gain increases the risk of gestational diabetes, so consult with your doctor to aim for appropriate weight gain.
4. Check your blood sugar regularly
If you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, it is important to monitor your blood sugar levels yourself and keep them within an appropriate range under the guidance of your doctor.
5. Manage your condition under the supervision of a doctor
If your blood sugar levels cannot be controlled by diet and exercise alone, you may need insulin therapy. Do not self-diagnose gestational diabetes, but always consult with your doctor before taking any measures.
summary
The main causes of gestational diabetes are hormonal changes and insulin deficiency during pregnancy. In addition, genetic factors and lifestyle habits also have an impact. To prevent gestational diabetes, it is important to eat a balanced diet and exercise moderately. Blood sugar management during pregnancy is essential to protect the health of both the mother and the baby. If you are concerned, consult a specialist doctor as soon as possible.
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