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.
How to Optimize Your Trulicity Dose for Maximum Effect
Summary: Optimizing your Trulicity dose is key to managing type 2 diabetes and boosting overall health. This guide explains how to start with the right Trulicity dose, adjust for better…
Trulicity vs Ozempic: A Detailed Comparison for Diabetes and Weight Loss
Summary: Deciding between Trulicity vs Ozempic for type 2 diabetes and weight loss is tricky, as both help control blood sugar and promote weight loss. Trulicity offers convenience for moderate…
Maximizing Trulicity Weight Loss: Tips and Strategies
Summary: Trulicity offers a unique approach to managing type 2 diabetes while supporting weight loss. Combining this medication with healthy lifestyle choices is essential to get the most out of…
How to Identify and Manage Trulicity Side Effects Effectively
Summary: Trulicity, a popular medication for managing type 2 diabetes, offers significant benefits, including improved blood sugar control and potential weight loss. However, like all medications, it may cause side…
What Is the Jardiance Drug Class? Insights into SGLT2 Inhibitors
Summary: The Jardiance drug class, encompassing SGLT2 inhibitors, represents an important advancement in managing type 2 diabetes and its complications. By promoting glucose excretion and providing cardiovascular and renal benefits,…
What Is Jardiance Used For? Everything You Should Know
Summary: Jardiance is a prescription medication used primarily for managing blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. Beyond glucose control, it offers additional benefits, including cardiovascular protection and…
Navigating the Side Effects of Jardiance with Ease
Summary: Jardiance is a highly effective medication for managing diabetes and heart failure. However, like all medications, it may come with challenges. Understanding the side effects of Jardiance and learning…
Jardiance for Heart Failure: Benefits, Risks, and Considerations
Summary: Jardiance is a medication for type 2 diabetes and heart failure. It helps reduce fluid buildup, improve heart function, and lower the risk of hospitalizations. While it offers significant…
Diabetes Mellitus and Male Fertility: Understanding the Impact and Treatment Options
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels, which can significantly impact male fertility. Understanding how diabetes affects male fertility, diagnosing infertility, and exploring treatment…
GLP-1 and Alcohol: Understanding the Impact on Consumption and Health
Alcohol dependence is a persistent and debilitating condition that affects millions worldwide. Despite the availability of various treatment options, it remains a significant public health issue due to high relapse…
What Is Farxiga Used For? Understanding Its Benefits in Diabetes and Beyond
Summary: Farxiga is a versatile medication primarily used for type 2 diabetes but also helps manage heart failure and chronic kidney disease. It lowers blood sugar, supports weight loss, and…
Exploring Farxiga Side Effects: What to Expect
Summary: Farxiga is commonly prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes and heart failure. Like any medication, it may come with side effects. Understanding what to expect and proper Farxiga dosing…