Pregnancy and Type 2 Diabetes
When you have Type 2 Diabetes, precautions you take before becoming pregnant are as important as prenatal care. The entire process from conception to childbirth needs to properly monitor so that no complications crop. It is important for women to have blood sugar levels within safe limits before and during the course of her pregnancy.
Diabetes and Pregnancy: Your Prenatal Care Team
If you are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and you wish to plan a family, the primary step is to ideally consult the same with your endocrinologist and obstetrician. Both of these will show you the way towards healthy pregnancy. It is highly pertinent to have your glucose levels within safe range both prior to and post conception. You must follow a healthy food and exercise routine to accomplish this objective Type 2 Diabetes can affect the organs of the baby. Obviously, you do not wish for such a
You can have a team of people who can guide you how to keep your Type 2 Diabetes under control. Your medical team might include:
- Obstetrician-The ob-gynecologist should be aware of how to take care of patients afflicted with Type 2 diabetes. He or she should also have experience dealing with patients with high-risk pregnancies.
- Dietitian-There should be a dietician who can guide you about the food choices you make or who can offer your meal plans in accordance to your condition in your body does not become low or high
- Diabetes educator-This specialist will help you understand needs of your changing body throughout course of your pregnancy.
- The future pediatrician of your baby should also be aware of your condition. He or she should have adequate experience in treating infants with mothers affected with Type 2 Diabetes.
Can Diabetes lead to birth defects?
Raised blood glucose level, particularly during the 1st trimester, can lead to birth defects and even miscarriage. More commonly gestational diabetes has an onset towards end of pregnancy. It is less dangerous as compared to traditional diabetes. It can lead to macrosomia, or “fat” baby.
Foods which a pregnant diabetic should avoid during pregnancy
- Starch rich foods such as potatoes, corn, yams, peas and winter squash
- Fruits and canned juices.
- Rice, cereal, grains, pasta.
- Junk Food
- Breads, crackers, tortilla, bagels and wraps.
- Dried beans, lentils, split peas and lentils.
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Diet for a pregnant diabetic
The day of a diabetic pregnant lady should begin with a good breakfast. The blood glucose levels in the morning are usually at a low and good breakfast will without any doubt make you feel fresh and energetic. In order to keep your glucose level in healthy range, you will have to limit intake of carbohydrates especially breads, cereal, and fruit. Increase intake of protein rich foods such as eggs, peanut butter, cheese and nuts.
Is oral medication or insulin the answer for Type 2 Diabetes?
Women affected by type 2 diabetes usually handle their blood glucose levels by consuming pills, having an eye on their food intake, and exercising. But when a woman becomes pregnant, hormones in the body go on an overdrive. So it is recommended to shift to insulin during the course of pregnancy so that no issues crop up. Even though pregnancy is a normal condition, but women with Diabetes have to be extra careful so as to ensure healthy pregnancy.