Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) | Yoga & Diet For Gestational Diabetes

TRYING TO CONCEIVE PREGNANCY CARE CONCERNS POST PREGNANCY CONCERNS CHILD CARE CONCERNS

Gestational Diabetes

Also called Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), usually develops during the second or the third trimester of pregnancy and may return to normal after childbirth. Women who have a family history of diabetes or are obese are at higher risks. It affects the mother in late pregnancy, as the hormones estrogen, cortisol, and human placental lactogen block insulin which ultimately affects glucose tolerance levels in the body. Gestational diabetes generally, can be controlled through regular exercises and eating healthy foods having less carbohydrates with a perfect balance of other nutrients.

Frequently asked questions

Why is it important to manage gestational diabetes?

Gestational Diabetes carries following potential risk of adverse pre or post natal outcomes for the pregnant mother and the baby if not managed:

High risk of obesity and glucose intolerance in child (long term).
High risk of developing diabetes mellitus later in life by the mother.
High chances of having C-Section (Caesarean Section).
High risk of High Blood Pressure (Preeclampsia), may leads to preterm delivery.
High chances of having a large baby (Macrosomia).
High risk of birth trauma and malformations.

What can I do if I have gestational diabetes?

Consumption of a balanced diet which is high in fibre, complex carbohydrates, low fat and sugar is recommended along with yoga or exercise.
In few cases your gynaecologist may suggest few doses of insulin (if not controlled through diet). However, it is dangerous if glucose level is not monitored regularly to avoid hypoglycaemia.