Episode 7
Gestational Diabetes
10-15% of all pregnant women get gestational diabetes even if they are super healthy (it has to do with pregnancy hormones). Tune in to this episode to learn more about gestational diabetes and tips to make it more manageable should you be faced with the diagnosis during your pregnancy.
How To Contact Our Guest:
Guest: Dr. Marlene Kalouyan
Make an appointment with Dr. K at Womens Health Specialists West Hills - (818) 887-5000.
Products Recommended In This Episode:
Show Notes
What is Gestational Diabetes?
Diabetes that a woman can develop only in pregnancy. It resolves once baby is delivered. It is diagnosed with a sugary drink and lab draw to assess your blood sugar levels.. If you don’t pass it they will do a three hour test on another day. In some cases, if you can’t tolerate the drink or labs, your doctor may send you home to have you test throughout the week.
Around 10%-15% of women can get gestational diabetes. When you’ve had gestational diabetes in the past, you’re more likely to have it again. Women also have a 25% increased risk of developing diabetes (regular type I and type II) throughout their lifetime. It is important to get screened every 2 years.
Even if you are super healthy, you can still get gestational diabetes. It is related to the pregnancy hormones which effects insulin production. Management of diabetes occurs by diet and medications. Women need to check 4x/day and after each meal and in some cases you need to check before meals. The daily goal for blood sugar levels is 95 or less when fasting and 140 or less post meals. Even if you eat super healthy, you may still need medication.
Types of Insulin:
Short-acting insulin
Long-acting insulin
*Follow your doctor’s recommendation for type and amount of insulin
Tips:
Use alcohol prep pads instead of washing your hands prior to pricking your finger
Journal/log numbers and what you eat - Use Jessica’s logbook :)
Make sure to exercise to get your numbers lower
Pair a protein with meals
Follow a keto diet
Risks for untreated gestational diabetes:
Larger than normal baby (macrosomia)
Increase risk for c-section delivery
Irregular distribution of fat on baby, more on shoulders
Shoulder dystocia
More fluid in uterus-preterm labor (polyhydramnios)
High blood pressure
Fetal demise
Support System:
Have your partner follow the same diet
Request what you need directly from your partner
Just remember…
This is manageable diagnosis
Its ok to be upset about it
You’ll have a lean pregnancy and look amazing
You’ll learn a lot
You can do it
It doesn’t last forever
Grocery List:
Ella’s Flats (Great crackers for snacking - eat with cheese for a nice treat)
Peanut Butter - Great for when you are craving sweets (choose only organic peanut butter with peanuts listed as the only ingredient)
Keto Bites - These things are the best thing EVER if you just need something sweet to take the edge off
Recommendations:
The Ultimate Gestational Diabetes Logbook
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMED MOM PODCAST DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
No material from our hosts or guests is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. We strive to provide you with education and information so that you can then go to your own provider and get an individualized approach to your medical needs and questions. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard in this podcast.