What is gestational diabetes? And how to control and treat it?

 Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It is caused by the body's inability to produce or use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body use glucose for energy.

Gestational diabetes is usually diagnosed between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. It is more common in women who are overweight or obese, have a family history of diabetes, or are over the age of 35.

There are two main ways to control and treat gestational diabetes:

• Diet and exercise: A healthy diet and regular exercise can help keep blood sugar levels under control. A registered dietitian can help you create a meal plan that is right for you.
• Insulin: If diet and exercise are not enough to control blood sugar levels, you may need to take insulin injections. Insulin is a safe and effective way to manage gestational diabetes.

It is important to control and treat gestational diabetes because it can have serious complications for both the mother and the baby. For the mother, gestational diabetes can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. For the baby, gestational diabetes can increase the risk of birth defects, premature birth, and macrosomia (a condition in which the baby is born too large).

If you have gestational diabetes, you will need to see your doctor regularly to monitor your blood sugar levels. You will also need to make lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. With proper care, gestational diabetes can be managed safely and effectively.

Here are some additional tips for controlling and treating gestational diabetes:

• Test your blood sugar regularly: Your doctor will tell you how often you need to test your blood sugar.
• Keep a food journal: This will help you track what you eat and how it affects your blood sugar levels.
• Learn about the different types of food and how they affect your blood sugar levels: This will help you make healthy food choices.
• Talk to your doctor about medications: If diet and exercise are not enough to control your blood sugar levels, you may need to take medications.
• Get regular prenatal care: This is important for both you and your baby.

If you have any questions or concerns about gestational diabetes, talk to your doctor.