Thursday, September 8, 2011

Gestational Diabetes Diet And Exercise

By James Lockwood


For almost any pregnant woman nothing is a lot more important than the well-being and health of her unborn child. Gestational diabetes is really a disease that all soon to be mothers have to be aware of simply because if left untreated it could have serious health consequences for both the mother and child. Because of this risk all mothers who're under a doctors or midwives care are routinely screened throughout their 2nd trimester for gestational diabetes.

The majority of ladies who have gestational diabetes are not aware their condition because most of the time the normal signs and symptoms associated with diabetes aren't present. The more overt signs include frequent urination, intense thirst and hunger, and fatigue, all of which can be caused by high blood sugar levels. Whether they show signs and symptoms or not the Glucose Challenge Test given during the 2nd trimester will rule out whether or not diabetes should be a concern during a woman's pregnancy.The most effective method to manage gestational diabetes is through a combination of diet and exercise. This only makes sense simply because these methods are the most easily accomplished help control high blood sugar levels.

The very first thing that must be done is replacing simple sugars in the diet with complex carbohydrates. This means avoiding high sugar drinks and foods such as soft drinks, fruit juices, candy, and refined bread products. Simple sugars are quickly assimilated in to the bloodstream and are a major cause of sugar surges, which may be hazardous for both mother and child.

Complex carbohydrates, on the other hand, from sources such as fruits (which still must eaten in moderation because of their high sugar content) and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes take longer to digest and provide a sustained source of dietary energy, keeping blood sugar levels at a more normal state. It's also necessary to balance carbohydrate consumption with the proper quantity of protein and fiber. Eating a healthy, nutritious diet plan is very important for all pregnant women, but much more so for those with gestational diabetes.

The other half of managing diabetes throughout pregnancy is through exercise. The need for insulin is decreased by exercise because the uptake of glucose by muscle cells is elevated during physical exercise leading to enhanced blood glucose control. Exercise will also help to reduce the quantity of cholesterol and triglycerides within the body, decreasing the chance of particular cardiovascular problems which are associated with diabetes.

Walking, yoga, swimming, and expectant mother aerobics classes are all great ways to get the physical exercise you'll need. Just 30 mins a day several times a week is really a good starting point. It's important to discuss any exercise program with you doctor before you start, but unless of course there are complications that prevent getting regular exercise staying in shape while pregnant is good for both the mother and child. Just remember to keep the exercise routine low-impact.

Gestational diabetes could be effectively controlled with a combination of diet and physical exercise. If you're diagnosed with this condition it is important to work closely with you medical service providers to keep it manageable, for the baby's and your own wellness.






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