Gestational Diabetes: Symptoms and diet to follow

The gestational diabetes, as its name suggests, appears during the pregnancy. It is estimated, according to medical data, that 4% of pregnant women suffer during pregnancy and while disappears after birth, it was found that up to 60% of them are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes after age 15. Women who are close to the age of 40 are more likely during pregnancy to suffer from conditions such as hypertension and gestational diabetes. Some studies also suggest that, even if they did not suffer gestational diabetes, women who give birth to babies weighing more than 4 kilos are more at risk of developing type 2 diabetes after child age.

Why raise sugar levels

The food that we eat contain glucose, essential substance for the body’s cells, because when metabolized provides large amounts of energy. Glucose circulates in the blood to reach all cells. But for that it needs the involvement of insulin, a hormone that is secreted by the pancreas. If there is not enough insulin or the body does not use it properly, glucose cannot get into the cells, which begin to accumulate in the blood (hyperglycemia).

Gestational Diabetes Symptoms

Feeling more tired than usual (the body of a person with diabetes cost him much more convert glucose into energy), have very thirsty (when blood sugar levels rise is usually urinate more and that promotes dehydration) and a ravenous appetite, slow digestion and even a change of skin tone or fruity breath are some of the symptoms that can alert us to be a possible diabetes. It should be emphasized that gestational diabetes can be and should be controlled by adopting a plan, agreed with the doctor, to maintain levels of blood sugar at appropriate levels. Not control diabetes during pregnancy can lead to problems in childbirth, to cause an increase in excessive weight of the baby.

Diet for Gestational Diabetes

The best way to prevent and combat diabetes is to eat a healthy balanced diet, in particular, follow the Mediterranean diet. Experts say that the combination of which is this diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, Greens, legumes, whole grains, olive oil… and poor in saturated fat) works by itself to confront the diabetes. It is important to avoid foods that are high in sugar and soft drinks.

The most desirable fruits for diabetes, because of its lower sugar content are apricots, melons, strawberries, persimmons, watermelon, peach and grapefruit.

The diet should be combined with other healthy habits. Staying active is a good way to keep blood sugar levels under control. It is therefore appropriate to exercise regularly before, during and after pregnancy. A good goal is to perform moderate exercise such as walking for 30 minutes five days a week.