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Alt Text: gestational diabetes diet treatment pregnancy guide India Dr Mamta Agrawal BestGyno
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy, usually after the 24th week. With rising lifestyle changes in India, GDM is becoming increasingly common—affecting nearly 15–20% of pregnant women. As a Gynaecologist with 27+ years of experience, I assure you that with timely diagnosis and proper treatment, most women with GDM have completely healthy pregnancies and healthy babies.
This doctor-approved 2025 guide explains the causes, risk factors, symptoms, diet plan, treatment options, sugar control tips and early warning signs, so you can manage GDM confidently and safely.
What Is Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational diabetes occurs when the body cannot make enough insulin to meet pregnancy demands. This leads to high blood sugar levels which can impact both mother and baby if untreated. Unlike Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, GDM occurs only during pregnancy and usually resolves after delivery.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Women are more likely to develop GDM if they have:
- Family history of diabetes
- Previous GDM in earlier pregnancy
- PCOS
- Obesity or overweight
- Age above 30
- History of delivering a large baby (>4 kg)
- Sedentary lifestyle
Common Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes
Many women do not have noticeable symptoms. But some may experience:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Recurrent infections
Since symptoms are unreliable, early testing is crucial.
How Is GDM Diagnosed?
The most reliable test is:
1. OGTT (Oral Glucose Tolerance Test)
This is done between 24–28 weeks. It measures sugar levels fasting, after 1 hour, and after 2 hours.
2. Early Pregnancy Screening
Women at high risk may be screened during the first trimester.
Risks of Untreated GDM
Uncontrolled gestational diabetes increases the risk of:
- Preeclampsia
- Preterm delivery
- Large baby (macrosomia)
- Cesarean delivery
- Low sugar levels in baby after birth
- Stillbirth (rare with good care)
However, with proper monitoring and sugar control, most complications are preventable.
Diet Plan for Gestational Diabetes (Indian Meal Guide)
A healthy GDM diet should focus on:
- Low glycemic index foods
- High fibre intake
- Healthy proteins
- Controlled carbohydrates
- Avoiding sugar and refined flour
Best Foods for GDM
- Whole grains (brown rice, dalia, oats)
- Millets (ragi, bajra)
- Vegetables
- Lean protein (dal, eggs, paneer)
- Nuts & seeds
- Low-fat dairy
Foods to Avoid
- White rice
- Sweets, chocolates
- Fruit juices
- Refined flour (maida)
- Fried snacks
Exercise Tips for GDM
- Walking 30 minutes daily
- Light prenatal yoga
- Low-impact exercises
Always avoid strenuous activity unless advised.
How Is Gestational Diabetes Treated?
Treatment depends on sugar levels:
1. Diet & Lifestyle Changes
Most women can control GDM through diet and exercise alone.
2. Blood Sugar Monitoring
Monitoring fasting and post-meal sugars helps track progress.
3. Medications
When lifestyle changes are insufficient, doctors may prescribe:
- Metformin (safe during pregnancy)
- Insulin
Tips for Better Sugar Control
- Eat smaller, frequent meals
- Include protein in every meal
- Avoid skipping breakfast
- Avoid long gaps between meals
- Walk 10–15 minutes after each meal
Post-Delivery: Will GDM Go Away?
Yes. In most women, gestational diabetes resolves after delivery. However, you should:
- Recheck sugar after 6–12 weeks
- Maintain healthy weight
- Avoid sugary foods
- Stay physically active
Women with GDM have higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life, so long-term care is essential.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can gestational diabetes harm my baby?
If untreated, yes. But with proper care, most babies are completely healthy.
2. Can I control GDM without medicines?
Yes. Many women manage it with diet, exercise, and sugar monitoring.
3. Is metformin safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Metformin is commonly prescribed and safe for GDM.
4. Will I get diabetes later?
Women with GDM have higher risk of Type 2 diabetes but lifestyle changes can prevent it.
5. Should I avoid fruits completely?
No. You can eat low-GI fruits in moderate quantities.
