Glucose is an important source of energy for the body. It is one of the sugar molecules that go directly into our bloodstream after digestion. However, it needs insulin in order to penetrate the cells of our body.

Insulin is produced by the pancreas. Once glucose is released into the bloodstream after digestion, the pancreas excretes an increased amount of insulin. This chemical allows your cells to absorb the glucose and transform it into body energy. Such process helps us maintain normal blood sugar levels.

During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that can make the body more resistant to insulin. As the placenta grows larger during the later half of the pregnancy, more of these hormones are produced. If the pancreas can’t release adequate insulin to overcome the insulin-resistant hormones, glucose stays in the blood stream. As a result, blood sugar levels may significantly increase. Such pregnancy problem is referred to as gestational diabetes.

Treatment and medications for Gestational Diabetes

Excessively high levels of blood sugar can be very dangerous for the mother and the child. However, the condition can be managed by following the physician’s treatment plan. Basically, the plan may involve the following activities:

Eating a more balanced diet

Nutrition management is very important for the body, especially during pregnancy. The physician may recommended a specific meal plan depending on the blood sugar level, food preferences, daily activities and vital signs of the mother. To control the blood sugar level, one should avoid eating foods that are rich in fat and calories. These include dairy products, meat, and other animal products. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are often recommended.

Daily Exercise

If the routine activities of a pregnant woman are not enough to significantly lower her blood sugar levels, exercise may be recommended by the doctor. Such can alleviate the harmful effects of gestational diabetes by increasing the body’s insulin sensitivity and by transporting the sugar to the cells. Among the most recommended exercises are aerobic routines, walking, cycling, and swimming.

Monitoring the blood sugar level

The blood sugar level of the mother should be checked at least four times a day. As such, the mother may be asked to conduct self monitoring. This can be done by using instant blood sugar level tests. Such test requires the mother to draw a drop of blood and test its level using a blood glucose meter kit.

Take medications

If changing the diet and exercising won’t produce positive results, the physician may recommend insulin injections in order to lower the blood sugar level. However, if the sugar level significantly decreases to a near-normal rate due to the diet changes and the exercise, the doctor may just advise oral medication such as glyburide. GP