#Gestational Diabetes

[beyondthebloodsugar]

My Fasting Experience: Low Blood Sugar Moments and How I Handled Them

Fasting can be a tricky journey. At times, it feels like walking a tightrope. It’s not just about skipping meals; it’s about tuning into what your body is saying. I started my fasting experience hoping for clarity and health. Little did I know, I'd face some surprising low blood sugar moments that shook me up! Here’s how I navigated through the bumps and found my footing.

Understanding the Ups and Downs of Fasting

Fasting often feels like an adventure. You think you’re on solid ground, but then—bam! Your blood sugar drops. Moments like these can feel alarming. Suddenly, you're weak, dizzy, or even lightheaded. It left me wondering: How did I get here?

When you fast, your body is running on empty fuel. It’s like trying to drive a car on fumes. Eventually, you hit a wall. This happened to me on several occasions. I realized that understanding my body’s signals was key to managing those low points.

Recognizing the Signs of Low Blood Sugar

Low blood sugar can sneak up on you. At first, it might just feel like a little fatigue. The next thing you know, you're staring at your feet, wishing the ground would steady itself. I started recognizing my signs: the shaky hands, the foggy brain, and that annoying little sweat on my forehead.

Each of these signs was a warning bell. It’s like my body was sending me a text message saying, "Hey, pay attention!" The trick was learning to listen and react before things got serious.

Quick Fixes to Raise Blood Sugar Levels

When low blood sugar hit, I needed solutions fast. I learned to keep a stash of easy snacks nearby. Something as simple as a piece of fruit or a bite of granola could make a world of difference. It was like pulling a parachute cord when free-falling. Instant relief!

I kept small packets of honey in my bag. They’re tasty, easy to carry, and bring up my sugar levels quickly. It’s amazing how a little sweetness can turn your day around!

Planning My Meals to Avoid Low Moments

Planning became crucial in my fasting routine. I started mapping out my meals, making sure I had enough nutrients to fuel my body. Eating wholesome meals before starting a fast was like filling my gas tank to full before a long trip. I wanted to avoid running out of fuel halfway.

I learned the importance of including proteins, fats, and fiber. These kept me feeling full longer and helped maintain steady blood sugar levels. It’s all about building a foundation that can handle the ups and downs.

Finding Balance Through Fasting

Fasting is all about balance. There were days when I hit those low points, but they were also days filled with learning. Each experience taught me more about my body and its signals.

It’s not just about the act of fasting itself; it’s about how to balance your body’s needs with your goals. I found that adjusting my approach and listening closely helped me handle those low blood sugar moments better.

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey

My fasting experience was filled with highs and lows. The low blood sugar moments were unexpected challenges, but also valuable lessons. I learned to listen, prepare, and react. Instead of fearing these moments, I embraced them as part of the journey.

So, if you’re thinking about fasting, keep in mind that it’s a personal adventure. You may face your own struggles, but with a little preparation and awareness, you'll find your way. Fasting isn’t just about food—it's about understanding your body and embracing the experience!

[honey-and-fig]

Please pray for a request of mine ♥️ I have gestational diabetes again, and consistent blood sugar testing is proving hard because the times when I’m supposed to end up falling during car rides, while there’s no one to relive me at work, etc. My OB put in an Rx for a continuous glucose monitor but insurance is asking for a prior authorization before they’ll fill it, the pharmacy sent the paperwork to my doctor so now I just need the doctor to fill it out quickly and my insurance company will hopefully be able to cover it.

[heardatmedschool]

“What a stress test is for the heart, pregnancy is for the pancreas.”

About gestational diabetes.

[mjkman1]

We need to work together as a single species in order to rid the world of problems like poverty and disease. If we can get rid of those things, than many of society's other problems will be eliminated as well. No more poverty anywhere means both in the United States, AND everywhere else in the world, including third world countries. No more third world countries means no more concerns for refugees and immigration. Everyone wins. Also, no disease, besides, in and of itself, saving lives, would also allow for a universally satisfying solution to the dividing issue of abortion, as no disease means no more pregnancy related complications. From there, the RIGHT can still technically be there, but without the reasons, so everyone wins. Have your cake and eat it too. Improving foster care is also necessary for this to work. Again, everyone wins.

[greenteawaist]

so bc my gd diet had me losing weight in the back quarter of my pregnancy, I ended it only like 12 lbs up from where I started and I'm like 11 days postpartum and I'm already under my pre-pregnancy weight.

started at 183 and I weighed in at 182.4 yesterday.

now I didn't know if it'll continue to melt off or if I'm at the end of the easy weight loss or what yet, but there's something really validating about having all the diet work I did for the past 2 months paying off in not just a healthy baby, but also the weight loss.

[med4lif3]

Diabetes (research post)

Diabetes is a chronic disease of varying types in which issues occur with insulin production or regulation

How's it caused?:

Type 1 diabetes: A chronic condition in which the pancreas produces an insufficient to none amount of insulin (hormone that allows glucose to be processed and enter into cells to create energy).

Type 2 and prediabetes: Similar to type 1 diabetes, the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin and the body is unable to use insulin which eventually leads to high levels of blood sugar. 

Gestational diabetes: This type of diabetes occurs in pregnant women and its cause is unknown. It has been theorized that the placenta will produce hormones that prohibit the mother's ability to regulate and use insulin.

Symptoms?:

Increased thirst

Frequent urination

Increased hunger 

Fatigue

Slow healing sores

Genital itching (Gestational diabetes

Treatment?:

For type 1 diabetes patients, they're treated with doses of insulin either by a daily injection or an insulin pump.

For type 2 diabetes patients are encouraged to lose weight and exercise, keeping their diet in check as type 2 diabetes is linked to obesity. Diabetes medications (such as ozempic) or insulin therapy may be given if dietary changes and exercise are insufficient in managing blood sugar.

Similarly patients with gestational diabetes manage the disease either through a healthier diet and exercise or insulin depending on their progression.

__

Note: this one resonates a bit since my country (lol the us) is well known for our high rates of diabetics and it also runs in my family but to keep things lighthearted i remade this meme i saw a while ago w my own twist

[am-3w]

How do you nest while high risk? How do you nest with debilitating hip/pelvic pain? Like when I've taken tylenol I feel okay for a few hours at a time when I dont move too much. But how do I prepare for baby when I'm scared to move too much? Like if i nest and push myself when im feeling good, im definitely going to be in more pain later. So wtf do I do??? 😩

[chronicallyjude]

I've made two (yes two!) Phone calls this morning and sent an email asking for my insulin to be refilled before my transfer of care is completed, and it's not even 9am yet.

[ttc-baby]

The rest of my day went better. After lunch it was 125 and after dinner it was 138 so all under the goal of 140. Tomorrow I’m going to have the same thing for breakfast to see if I get the same results. Also I’m up to 14 on my insulin, im hoping I’ll be under 100 in the morning.

[beyondthebloodsugar]

Take Control: Managing Elevated Blood Sugar Levels with Diabetes

Living with diabetes can feel like riding a roller coaster. Sometimes you're up, and other times, you're just trying to hold on. Elevated blood sugar levels can lead to complications, but managing them doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Let’s break it down into simple steps that make sense.

Understanding Elevated Blood Sugar Levels

When you eat, your body breaks down food into glucose, which is the fuel your cells need. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps move that glucose into your cells. In diabetes, this system doesn’t work quite like it should. This can leave too much sugar lingering in your bloodstream. Think of it like a traffic jam; instead of flowing smoothly, everything's backed up and causing problems.

Recognizing the Signs

Ever felt unusually thirsty or tired? Maybe you've noticed frequent trips to the bathroom? Those can all be signs your blood sugar is too high. Other signals might include blurred vision or headaches. Paying attention to your body is key. It's like having a built-in alarm system; you just need to know how to listen.

Smart Eating Habits

Your diet plays a significant role in managing your blood sugar. Focus on whole foods that nourish your body. Think fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains. Picture your plate as a colorful palette. The more colors you have, the more nutrients you’re getting! Try to balance your meals with carbs, proteins, and fats to keep your blood sugar steady.

Regular Exercise: Your Secret Weapon

Let’s talk about exercise – it’s not just for fitness buffs or sports enthusiasts. Moving your body helps your cells use insulin more effectively. Just 30 minutes of walking, biking, or dancing can be a game changer. Think of exercise like a key; it opens the door for glucose to enter your cells. Plus, it lifts your mood and boosts your energy levels.

Monitoring Your Blood Sugar

Keeping an eye on your blood sugar numbers is crucial. Regular testing gives you a clear picture of how your food choices and activities impact your levels. Over time, you’ll start to notice patterns. Maybe you find out a certain snack pushes your numbers up. This knowledge is empowering, like having a roadmap in your back pocket.

Managing Stress: The Silent Saboteur

Stress can sneak in and cause your blood sugar to spike. It’s like an unexpected guest that makes everything chaotic. Stress triggers your body to release hormones that can raise blood sugar. Finding outlets like deep breathing, yoga, or even enjoying a hobby can help keep your stress in check. Think of these activities as a calm oasis amid a busy desert.

The Importance of Medication

Sometimes, lifestyle changes aren’t enough on their own. If your doctor has prescribed medication, it’s essential to take it as directed. Medications can help bridge the gap between what your body needs and what it can produce. Think of medication as a protective shield, safeguarding you from potential complications.

Building a Support System

You're not alone on this journey. Building a support system is vital. This can include friends, family, or join local support groups. Talking about your experience helps lighten the load. It’s like having a team behind you at a big game, cheering you on every step of the way.

Conclusion: Your Path Forward

Managing elevated blood sugar levels with diabetes doesn’t have to feel daunting. By learning about your body, making smart food choices, staying active, and seeking support, you can take significant steps towards better health. Remember, each small change adds up, and you have the power to shape your journey. Embrace this path and take control of your health today!

[sincrly1]

Kailani Selena.. you defined an entirely new meaning of love for me. That day changed my life forever. Te amo chiquita!!

6/14/23

[shubhragoyal]

This blog post discusses the common pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, miscarriage, premature birth and associated risk factors, how to manage and prevent them, and the impact of premature birth on a baby's health and development.

Read More: https://www.drshubhragoyal.com/welcome/blogs/during-pregnancy:-common-complications-and-risk-factors

[heartfucksmouth]

let's see if CVS has my damn insulin ready. I love that the doc was like "I'd like you to start it tonight" on FRIDAY lmao and it's now Tuesday and I still don't have it. I'll be on insulin for maybe 3 weeks before i give birth. that's probably not even enough time to really get a grasp on what dose is gonna help. jfc.

[morethanlightsandclockwork]

Somehow I have gestational diabetes :( I knew that in theory lifestyle and weight and diet didn’t cause it and it’s all the placenta, but I was v shocked to be diagnosed. And now that I’m tracking I’m also v shocked that seemingly healthy things like my lunch of avo toast and poached egg caused an out of range blood sugar reading :/

I’ll do what I need to for the baby’s sake, but I did not expect this…

[earthlings1997]

Pregnant Women Who Develop Diabetes Should Cut Calories to Avoid Insulin: Research

Pregnant Women Who Develop Diabetes Which affects thousands of pregnant women each year, leading to potential complications for both mother and baby. A recent study has suggested that reducing calorie intake could help many of these women avoid the need for insulin injections, providing a safer and more manageable approach to managing blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Conducted by researchers…

[mr-divabetic]

Love Across Life Stages with Diabetes Survey for Women

We’re thrilled to launch the 2nd annual Love Across Life Stages of Diabetes Survey for Women in partnership with DiabetesSisters. By sharing your experiences, you play a vital role in shaping the future of diabetes care and support. Visit Divabetic.Org to take the survey.

With approximately 15 million women in the U.S. navigating the challenges of diabetes every day, your stories are invaluable. Our survey aims to highlight the unique experiences of women managing diabetes, providing insights that can enhance care, support, and encouragement.

Stay tuned for the results in March, where we’ll share new insights and approaches to managing diabetes with love and resilience. Your voice matters!