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Motherhood is the most beautiful and challenging phase of a woman’s life. This is the time when a woman experiences a complete transformation in her body. Her body goes through a lot during this phase of life. That is why a woman needs special care at this time, especially women who have diabetes before getting pregnant or who are at risk of developing it. A woman who is not diabetic before pregnancy may develop diabetes during pregnancy, known as gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is very common in women during pregnancy, although most tend to get cured after childbirth. Managing blood sugar during pregnancy is necessary for the health and development of the foetus and the overall health of the mother. In the following article, we will explore more about the ways to manage blood sugar levels for a healthy pregnancy.
Effective Ways To Manage Blood Sugar Levels During Pregnancy
If you develop diabetes during pregnancy or are diabetic before getting pregnant, it is necessary for you to first book an appointment with your gynaecologist to learn about your health condition and then act accordingly. There are many effective ways to help manage blood sugar during pregnancies, which are mentioned below.
Diet: Eating healthy can help prevent many diseases and keep us healthy; thus, managing blood glucose levels becomes easy with the right diet. Eat a balanced diet rich in fibre and low in fat and calories, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, vitamins, and minerals that are helpful in controlling blood sugar in pregnancy. Besides following this diet plan, you should also limit your sugar intake; swap your candies, cookies, ice cream, and sugary drinks for a healthy diet. Eating the right food at the right time is important; divide your meal into three small parts and eat at regular intervals, with two to three at snack breaks. Also, eat your meals in small portions.
Physical Activity: In contrast with popular belief, regular exercise can actually support a healthy pregnancy. It is necessary for both the mother's health and foetal growth to protect you from developing diabetes during this beautiful phase of life. Try doing light exercises daily for at least 30 minutes a day; taking a walk around your house or in a park for at least 10–20 minutes; riding a bicycle; or swimming laps. Doing them daily, without fail, can be a great help.
Weight Management: Most pregnancies are unplanned, but if you are planning to get pregnant, keep in mind that you need to manage your weight before getting pregnant. Although people believe that gaining extra weight is common during pregnancy, try not to gain weight more than recommended. To maintain a healthy weight before and during pregnancy, you need to eat healthy food that is free from saturated fat, excess sugar, and less fibre. Exercise can also help in maintaining a healthy weight to help you in your journey towards motherhood.
Regular Check-Ups: Timely consultations or regular check-ups are the most effective way to keep your blood sugar level in check. Try to measure your glucose level at home with a glucometer, but did you know that what is the blood sugar limit for pregnancy? A healthy mother’s blood sugar level should always be between 60 and 95 mg/dL before meals and between 100 and 129 mg/dL one hour after a meal. If it rises above this level, consult an expert for the right advice.
Medications: If your blood sugar level still remains high, even after switching your diet and regular exercise, your healthcare expert may recommend you take medications. These medications generally include tablets like metformin and insulin injections that are trusted to help women deal with their diabetes in pregnancy.
Ayurveda: Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicines that are based on the herbal benefits of plant-based ingredients, provides a holistic approach towards health and well-being. Ayurvedic diabetes capsules are a blend of natural ingredients that have the ability to manage a healthy blood glucose level and maintain overall health. Although herbal medicines are safe and free from harmful chemicals, it is necessary to consult your health expert before adding them to your daily routine.
Conclusion
Controlling blood sugar in pregnancy is necessary for the health of the expecting mother as well as the baby. Though high sugar levels can be worrisome, they can be easily manageable with a diet rich in fibre, light exercise, regular monitoring, medications, and herbal products. These are some of the easy and effective ways to manage healthy blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Although these methods can help you, it is recommended that you consult your health expert for better guidance.