Gestational diabetes is a common medical condition that afflicts an increasing number of pregnant women in Kenya. It affects an estimated 4-14 % of pregnant women globally, a research done by Dr. Bosire Alex Nyakundi a well-renowned gynaecologist. Not many women know about gestational diabetes, and how it may occur. Here is a little-detailed insight about it.
The root of gestational diabetes is not 100% known by medical practitioners but the two main causes that are confirmed are
HeredityMost mothers who have had or are currently battling it could be having a family history of diabetes.
Poor eating habitsWhen a pregnant woman is having poor eating habits and by this, it means that she could be not eating enough, overeating or simply not eating a healthy balanced diet. This could force the body to need sugar and protein or dangerously have large amounts of it. This directly could lead to gestational diabetes.
How to prevent it:
Eat wellMake sure you eat enough for both baby and yourself.
Get CheckedAn early diagnosis could save a mum and her unborn baby. During prenatal clinics, most doctors insist on getting a mother's urine sample. With these samples, they check the sugar and protein levels.
ExerciseMothers and pregnant women are encouraged to exercise the body to make use of the sugars and proteins that they consume. As a result, it levels your sugar to a normal level of 4-7.
How to treat itIt depends on the severity of the condition when diagnosed. A MILD condition can easily be controlled by a healthy diet. Most doctors will refer you to a nutritionist to help maintain a balanced diet for both the mother and the baby. A SEVERE condition is treated by taking extreme measures of insulin. The Insulin regulates the blood sugar from getting too high which is also known as hyperglycemia or too low hypoglycemia.
What is the risk of gestational diabetes?It may cause the body organs to shut down
It may lead to an abnormally large size of the baby, in the belly.
It may lead to a baby being born with diabetes.
