Join now & save up to 80% on medication

JOIN NOW
Select Language:

Join now and save 80% on medication

Register/Login

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.

Diabetes
What Factors Affect the Farxiga Price and How to Find Discounts?

Summary: This article explores the factors influencing the cost of Farxiga (dapagliflozin), a potent medication for managing type 2 diabetes, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease. It offers practical tips…

Read More
Diabetes
Farxiga Weight Loss: Can This Medication Help You Shed Pounds? 

Summary: Farxiga, a diabetes medication, has gained attention for its potential weight loss benefits. How Farxiga works is by promoting glucose excretion through urine, which helps lower blood sugar and…

Read More
Diabetes
How Does Farxiga Dosing Work for Effective Treatment?

Summary: Farxiga dosing is critical for managing conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease. Proper dosing maximizes benefits while minimizing risks. This article explores how…

Read More
Diabetes, Insulin
Common and Rare Lantus Side Effects: What to Expect

Summary: Lantus, a long-acting insulin, helps manage blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. While generally safe, it may cause common side effects such as low blood sugar and injection…

Read More
Diabetes, Insulin
How the Lantus Savings Card Can Help You Cut Insulin Costs

Summary: The Lantus Savings Card helps individuals with commercial insurance significantly reduce the cost of Lantus, potentially lowering out-of-pocket expenses to as little as $0 per month. This article explains…

Read More
Diabetes, Insulin
Lantus Insulin Price Breakdown: Affordable Options and Savings Tips

Summary: The cost of Lantus insulin can be a significant burden for many diabetes patients. However, exploring Lantus savings options, such as the Lantus savings card, can help make this…

Read More
Diabetes
Exenatide and Reduced Alcohol Craving: How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Your System

A recent clinical trial investigated the effects of exenatide on alcohol dependence in 114 individuals. The study divided participants into two groups: one received exenatide plus cognitive behavioral therapy, while…

Read More
Diabetes, Insulin
Humalog Insulin Pump: How It Works and Why It’s Effective

Summary: The Humalog insulin pump offers a convenient and precise way for diabetes patients to manage blood sugar levels. It delivers insulin continuously, mimicking natural insulin release, and provides better…

Read More
Diabetes
Addressing Anxiety and Fear in Children with Diabetes

Managing diabetes in children is a multi-faceted journey that requires a comprehensive approach that extends far beyond the typical focus on blood sugar levels and dietary management. While keeping blood…

Read More
Diabetes, Insulin
How Tresiba FlexTouch Pens Help Control Blood Sugar Levels

Managing diabetes means juggling diet, exercise, and medication, but insulin therapy can be a game-changer. Tresiba FlexTouch Pens simplify this routine, offering a user-friendly way to keep blood sugar levels…

Read More
Diabetes
How to Stay Motivated to Exercise with Diabetes

Maintaining an active lifestyle is essential for managing diabetes, but staying motivated can be challenging. However, with the right mindset and strategies, you can keep your motivation high and make…

Read More
Diabetes, Diabetes Supplies
Acceptable Combinations of Diabetes Medications: Safe and Effective Treatment Options

Acceptable combinations of diabetes medications offer an effective way to manage blood sugar levels by utilizing drugs with multiple active ingredients. These combinations target various aspects of diabetes, making it…

Read More