Nutrition for Special Groups

Nutrition for Special Groups 3(3+0)

Lesson 13 : Pregnancy in Older Women

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational Diabetes usually appears later in pregnancy as the tissues become resistant to insulin. Normal glucose levels are reached after child birth.
If the woman continues to be excessively over weight she is likely to develop type II diabetes.
Risk factors for gestational Diabetes:

• Previous gestational diabetes
• History of large infants
• Family history of diabetes
• Symptoms of diabetes (glycosuria)
• Excessive weight gain
• Age 30 or more
• Complications of previous pregnancies

Tests for glucose and ketone bodies in urine should be conducted regularly during pregnancy. Diet and insulin therapy are important means of achieving good glycemic control.