Gestational Diabetes: Most Effective Supplements

Gestational diabetes is defined as a glucose tolerance disorder, of varying severity, that begins or is diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy. This disorder leads to hyperglycemia of varying severity and may require different levels of treatment. Worldwide prevalence of gestational diabetes varies between 2 and 6%, with higher rates observed in certain populations such as in India, the Middle East, and Sardinia. In mainland France, about 8% of pregnancies are affected.

Pathophysiology

During the first half of pregnancy, there is an increase in insulin production and sensitivity to this hormone. However, in the second half, glucose tolerance decreases due to increased placental hormonal secretion, leading to insulin resistance. When the pancreas can no longer produce enough insulin, hyperglycemia develops, characterizing gestational diabetes.

Risk Factors

The main risk factors for gestational diabetes include: aaa Overweight (BMI 65 25 kg/mb2) aaa Age greater than or equal to 35 years aaa Family history of type 2 diabetes aaa Personal history of gestational diabetes.

Complications

Maternal complications: aaa Preeclampsia aaa Increased risk of cesarean section aaa Psychological disorders such as anxiety and postpartum depression. Fetal complications: aaa Macrosomia aaa Tissue hypoxia aaa Delayed lung maturation aaa Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Treatment

Management of gestational diabetes includes: aaa Self-monitoring of blood glucose (at least four to six times a day) aaa Dietary and lifestyle changes aaa If necessary, insulin therapy (which poses no risk to the fetus).

Screening

Screening for gestational diabetes generally occurs between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy. It includes fasting blood glucose measurement and, if necessary, an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).0a0a Prognosis for the mother: a The risk of developing type 2 diabetes is multiplied by seven and persists for at least 25 years. a Increased risk of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases.0a