It was June of 2004 when I got the news that I was pregnant with my first son, I was overjoyed that I finally had the opportunity to become a mother, it was the greatest day of my life, but I didn’t know what was to come. My appointments ran smoothly for 6 months straight all was well until my 7th month strolled in and I was told that I had gestational diabetes, that’s when it hit me. All the eating, junk food, sodas, anything unhealthy, had taken its toll, and it wasn’t for the best. I had to take a glucose test, a 1 hour and 3 hour test, I failed both. The Dr. put me in the hospital and I had to change my eating habits. I was placed on a strict diet of 1200 calories and told to do moderate exercise until my son was born. I also had to monitor my glucose levels 3 times a day, yes I had to prick my finger 3 times a day, and might I add how I hate needles!! It was honestly the worst experience with pregnancy that is until I got pregnant with my second son.
I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes for a second time and I think I cried, because with my first pregnancy I was told that if I was to encounter gestational diabetes a second time then I will have it in the future, and to have it again really hurt my heart. I thought I was doing everything I could to prevent it, but unfortunately I wasn’t. The second time around I was introduced to a pill called Glyburide, I was so scared to take the pill, but the doctor ensured me that it would hurt my baby. Again, I had to prick my finger 3 times a day and take a record of my glucose level, although I wasn’t hospitalized I was placed on a 1200 calorie diet. It helped to keep a journal of what I ate, and I drank 8 glasses of water a day. I was relieved to find out I ended up not having to take the medication, my second son came early, and by the time I went back to my doctor all was well.
Since then, I have taken precautions to try to prevent long term diabetes by exercising regularly, eating healthier, and drinking plenty of water. Eat healthier, lots of green veggies, and try to eat fresh as much as possible, lay off the mac and cheese, potatoes, and any starchy food, unless you’re doing vigorous exercise. Drink plenty of water, yes I know I said this already, but I cannot stress it enough it is vital for the flow and elimination of all waste. Even if you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, you can still follow the instructions so you will not have complications. Each pregnancy is different so it is wise to just go with the flow and be sure to follow the doctor’s orders. To sum it all up here are some steps to help you if you have gestational diabetes during your pregnancy.
Drink plenty of water.
Try to exercise as often as possible.
Get as much rest as you can.
Put yourself on a diet plan, preferably 1500-1800 calories.
Follow all of the doctors orders.
Try to follow those steps and you will be able to control your gestational diabetes until your little one is born. Congrats!!!