GDM is defined as 'Carbohydrate intolerance with first recognition or onset during pregnancy'. GDM is a primary concern in India affecting millions of pregnant women each year.
Women with gestational diabetes are at subsequent high risk of type 2 diabetes, Also Exposure to hyperglycemia in the womb predisposes baby to a high risk of becoming overweight or obese, associated with the development of type 2 diabetes.
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A good news is expectant mothers can control gestational diabetes by Eating healthy foods, a planned Exercise program and if necessary taking Medication as per your doctor advise. Controlling blood sugar can keep you and your baby healthy and prevent a difficult delivery.
CAUSES OF GDM AND RISK FACTORS
GDM is caused by altered insulin sensitivity or resistance due to hormonal secretions like lactogen, leptin, cortisol, prolactin, estrogen during pregnancy.
Some women have a greater risk of gestational diabetes. Risk factors includes:
Overweight and obesity.
Lack of physical activity/Sedentary lifestyle
Age > 30
Previous gestational diabetes or prediabetes
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Family history of diabetes
Previously delivering a baby with more weight
SYMPTOMS
GDM doesn't cause noticeable signs or symptoms in a few people.
Increased or unusual thirst, more-frequent urination ,fatigue, increased appetite, blurred vision are possible symptoms.
Complications that may affect baby
Excessive birth weight.
Early (preterm) birth.
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
Obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life.
Stillbirth
Complications that may affect Pregnant women
High blood pressure and preeclampsia.
Surgical delivery (C-section).
Risk of developing diabetes.
Prevention of GDM
Eat healthy foods-Choose foods high in fiber, low in fat and calories. Focus on selected fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Keep active -Exercising before and during pregnancy can help protect you from developing gestational diabetes.
Start pregnancy at a healthy weight.
Don't gain more weight than recommended during pregnancy.
Exercises for GDM
Safe and Effective Exercise has a powerful potential to assist with blood glucose control.
Effective support program for
Weight management and
Increasing physical activity to at least 150 min per week of moderate activity helps in control of GDM.
BENEFITS OF EXERCISE DURING PREGNANCY
Improve cardiovascular functions such as fitness, blood pressure, and peripheral oedema.
Preeclampsia has decreased with an increase in physical activity
Decrease the risk of developing GDM and type 2 diabetes
Reduces the vast effects of hyperglycemia on the women, fetus and child
As pregnancy is a period associated with physiological and psychological changes, exercise benefits on hormonal balance ,mood swings and psychological well being.
Due to limitation in weight gain and fat retention, exercise improve self confidence of individual, reduce insomnia and fatigue
Other benefits for Labor and Fetus
Lower heart rate response to acute maternal exercise
Higher tolerance to labour
Lower birth weights
Increased gestational ages (lower risk of preterm birth)
Increased in placenta viability and volume
Improved neurodevelopment and lower body fat percentage
Increase in vascular function and placental growth
Infants have higher behaviour regulatory ability and orientation
Exercise prescription for GDM
Exercises are prescribed by physiotherapists depending on the individual patient's history, medical conditions, fitness and FITT (frequency, intensity, time/duration and type) principles.
Low impact aerobics (large muscle activities in a rhythmic manner) e.g., walking, swimming ,dancing
4-5 Days per week ,30 -40 minutes
Resistance (multi joint exercises, large muscle groups) e.g., light weight dumbbells, resistance band ,pregnancy Pilates, body weight exercises.
2-3 Days per week 20 -30 minutes
Stretching exercises for Flexibility and Relaxation.
5 Days per week 15 to 30 minutes or added during static postures at workplace or home
Things to remember while exercising
Discuss with your obstetrician and physiotherapist to begin any exercise program
Don't hold breaths during exercises ,Breathe evenly throughout the exercises
Maintain good posture
Use light weights and keep the number of repetition 8 -15 counts, progress from less counts to achieve higher counts
Watch your blood sugar level. If you exercise after a meal, wait to eat your snack until after your workout, If it's been 2 hours or more since a meal, eat your snack first, then exercise
Avoid Jumping, bouncing ,end range stretches ,lifting heavy weights and jerky motions
Rehydrate frequently
Take Rest breaks, when required
Missing a workout is normal to any person, get back to track in one or two days. Follow your exercise program regularly till your due date , talk to your physiotherapist if any difficulty.
TODAYS ACTIONS ARE TOMORROW'S RESULT.
BE ACTIVE, STAY HEALTHY AND HAPPY.
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