Diabetes Articles
What is gestational diabetes?
The term gestational diabetes (GD) refers to diabetes that is diagnosed during pregnancy. Current estimates place between 3% to 25% of all pregnant women to be at risk for gestational diabetes, which has significant consequences for both the fetus and the mother. Many women also develop type 2 diabetes mellitus after GD, which further compounds the need to identify the risks associated with this disease. To date, there has been no causal link established between sugar consumption and the development of GD because sugar consumption plays close to no role in influencing insulin resistance, which is the key mechanism that establishes GD.
Risks of gestational diabetes
As a pregnancy progresses throughout the trimesters, insulin resistance tends to increase in mothers that have GD. High blood sugar levels occur when the insulin-producing pancreas can no longer compensate for the resistance. There are, however, a multitude of known risk factors, and these include being under the age of 25 years; a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus or previous gestational diabetes; race, with those of African heritage particularly at risk; being overweight; having hypertension; polycystic ovarian syndrome; and chronic steroid consumption. These risk factors are used for early detection in the assessment of pregnant mothers who are prone to GD. Tackling the presence of high blood sugar levels is crucial in the early stages of fetal development, so as to ensure the organs develop normally. As mentioned above, being overweight or obese with a Body Mass Index (BMI) above 25 kg/m2 has significant bearing in predisposing pregnant women to suffer from GD.
One reason for the misconception that sugar causes GD may come from the fact that there may be excess carbohydrate intake in individuals with the disease. Excessive consumption of dessert foods, such as cake, cookies, and other confectionaries that tend to be major part of the diets of some obese individuals can lead to the false assumption that sugar and gestational diabetes have a causal link.
—
Disclaimer: Please note that the contents of this community article are strictly for informational purposes and should not be considered as medical advice. This article, and other community articles, are not written or reviewed for medical validity by Canadian Insulin or its staff. All views and opinions expressed by the contributing authors are not endorsed by Canadian Insulin. Always consult a medical professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
Are Blueberries Good for Diabetics?
Are blueberries good for diabetics? Fruits are the perfect option for managing diabetes. Alongside vegetables, the vitamins and minerals you get in fruits can help stabilize and control blood sugar…
Diabetes and Endocrine System
Link between diabetes and the endocrine systemThe pancreas, which plays an essential role in the production of insulin, is a part of the endocrine system. A series of complications such…
November Diabetes Awareness Month
November diabetes awareness monthNovember is an important month for organizations focused on diabetes causes. As a month dedicated to diabetes awareness, November focuses on learnings about the condition. Hundreds of…
What is Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a medical specialist that treats the foot, ankle, and other parts of the leg. Also known as a foot doctor, a podiatrist may provide special foot care…
Diabetes Food Hub
What is diabetes food hub? Every diabetic has struggled with making smart dietary choices at least once in their lifetime. The overwhelming tasks of calculating the glycemic index and identifying…
What is burning feet syndrome?
Link Between Nerve Damage, Burning Feet and DiabetesDo you experience a burning sensation on your feet during the nighttime? Also called nerve damage, neuropathy is a condition that causes a…
Pancreas and Diabetes
What is the link between pancreas and diabetes?The pancreas is located in the abdomen, just behind the stomach. It helps digest food with the hormones and enzymes it produces. This…
Diabetic Nephropathy
What is diabetic nephropathy?Diabetic nephropathy is one of the many complications of diabetes mellitus. It is also referred to as diabetic kidney disease. This condition affects the organ’s function in…
Are Pears Good For You? Diabetics and Pears
Are pears good for people with diabetes? People with diabetes often believe that eating too many fruits can increase their blood sugar levels. Technically, some fruits contain a good amount…
Diabetes Urine Smell
Can Diabetes Cause Urine Odor?Diabetes Urine Smell. Did you know that your urine can smell different if you have diabetes? Urinating is a way for the body to get rid…
Blood Sugar Chart Levels
Normal Blood Sugar Levels ChartBlood sugar or glucose plays an essential role in helping the body function properly, especially in the nervous, lymphatic, skeletal, and muscular systems. Hence, proper blood…
Calcium and Diabetes
What is the relationship between calcium and diabetes?Calcium and Diabetes. Calcium is important for bone health, cardiovascular, nervous, and muscular systems. Studies show that 99% of calcium is found in…