There is a controversy surrounding the diagnosis of gestational diabetes, Gestational Carbohydrate Intolerance Diabetes. It is about whether gestational diabetes truly exists or if the normal body mechanisms of pregnancy are clearly understood. This controversy may have started by a 1979 redefining of what diabetes is. Before that time, a blood glucose level of 140-150 after a fast of twelve hours was considered normal in a non-pregnant woman and was also used as an upper range of normal for a pregnant woman. Based on “new” research, the new upper number for safety became 105 mm. Doctors are now screening women and enforcing the lower number in their practices. Pregnant women can learn about gestational diabetes and choose a course of action that will benefit themselves and their babies.

Personal Story

My niece is carrying twins. She was just diagnosed with gestational diabetes. This is what prompted me to dig in and research this condition that pregnant women sometimes have.

What’s the Problem?

The problem with the new number for blood glucose was that the research study it was based on did not attempt to determine what the normal blood glucose is in well-nourished women. It just used a general sampling of pregnant women who may not have had great eating habits.

Well-nourished women, who have adequate protein, vitamins, minerals, and calories, stabilize their glucose levels, and maintain a reserve of energy in their livers.  These glycogen stores of energy are good for about twelve hours. In those women who are not well-nourished, their stores are minimal or not existent, so their glucose level drops after eating and remains low till the next meal. 105 mm is an artificially low level for a pregnancy glucose level.

A gestational diabetes label adds stress to the pregnant mother, since she now must monitor her blood often and keep the glucose level between 100 and 105. The diet that is often prescribed restricts carbohydrates and mismanages a woman’s nutritional needs.

So, What Are Good Glucose Levels?

The normal body mechanisms of pregnancy are not always understood, and the glucose tests are often faulty. Eating a nutritious, whole-food diet of adequate protein, vitamins, minerals, and calories may result in higher glucose levels, but if it is in the “old” normal range of 140-150 mm, it should be okay for a pregnant woman.

What Can Someone with NIDDM Do to Help Herself?

Someone who has Non-insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM), could strive to maintain a healthful diet, do 30 minutes of moderate exercise (or take a brisk walk five days a week), and eliminate dairy products, as well as white foods (white flour, white sugar, pasta, white potatoes, etc.).

The best diabetic diet supported by scientific literature is a high-complex-carbohydrate, high-fiber diet used by Dr. James Anderson. The Schwarzbein Principle, by Diana Schwarzbein, M.D., is also a healthful guide for managing glucose. Legumes might be added to the diet for glucose control. Maintaining ideal body weight through nutrient-dense food choices is a good accomplishment, though the client should not try to lose weight through calorie restriction during pregnancy.

Action

This is an introduction to provide education on gestational diabetes and how a pregnant woman who has it can begin to support her body while dealing with it. Please encourage anyone with gestational diabetes to begin to make changes in their lifestyle and eating habits.

Resources:

http://www.drbrewerpregnancydiet.com/id33.html

Naturally Healthy Pregnancy, by Shonda Parker

May God bless your healthful endeavors!

Joni

P.S. Have you ever dealt with Gestational  Diabetes?