Gestation Diabetes mellitus ( GDM)

Gestation diabetes mellitus( GDM) is a condition that typically develops during the third trimester of pregnancy It affects women with no previous diagnosis of diabetes and is characteristerised by high blood glucose levels.
What is GDM ?
Diagnosed during pregnancy, gestational diabetes. Just like type 1 and type 2: diabetes. Causes blood sugar levels to become too high. A pregnant body is naturally more resistant to Insulin to ensure that enough glucose is available to nourish the baby. The problem arises when the pancreases fail to keep up with increased demand for Insulin during pregnancy.When the cells don't use the glucose, the blood sugar levels rise too high, and this results in gestational diabetes.GDM is not permanent. After delivery, blood swill most likely return to normal quickly. But having gestational diabetes increases the risk of developing diabetes in future.
GDM Impact
The chance of birth defects is almost nil. However, the extra blood glucose goes through the placenta, giving the baby high blood glucose levels. This causes the baby's pancreas to make extra Insulin to get rid of the blood glucose.Since the baby is getting more energy than it needs to grow and develop, the extra energy is stored as fat.This may lead to macrosomia or fat baby further making vaginal delivery difficult.Also due to there  extra Insulin made by baby's pancreas, these new born may have V low blood glucose levels at birth and are at higher risk for breathing problems.Babies with excess Insulin become children who are at risk of obesity and grow into adults who are at risk for type 2 diabetes. As for the mother infections., Hypertension( preeclampsia)  , increased chances of operative delivery and economical and social impact due to frequent dr. Consultations and frequent investigations are some of the effects.
Diet for managing GDM
Eat small frequent meals 3 meals and 3 snacks
Ensure a regular intake of low glycemic index., Carbohydrate, low in fat and sugar.
Avoid fruit juices, eat the fruit instead.
Include protein in diet.
Avoid artificial sweeteners.
Monitor glucose levels.
Maintain a weight.