Gestational Diabetes

I was about 28 weeks pregnant when I had the glucose test. I was horrified to find out that I had Gestational Diabetes! When they told me that I would have to prick my finger 4 times a day to see if my diabetes could be controlled by diet alone I thought I would pass out. I hated needles, I hated getting blood drawn and I couldn't even fathom putting a needle in my finger! I asked what the alternative was and there really was none. After feeling as if I was given a death sentence I pouted and mopped and felt sorry for myself. Later on in the evening I researched Gestational Diabetes and the terrible effects on the children if it was uncontrolled. I felt a cold chill run down my spine as I realized how selfish I had been. I realized that this was not the worst thing in the world for me and I had control. Luckily I was able to control my sugar with diet alone and was lucky not to have insulin shots.

There is so much information on controlling Gestational Diabetes online and typically your doctor refers you to a dietitian to place you on a special diet. It was a great way for me to not go crazy with the ice cream (I wasn't allowed ANY) and it help me gain only 28lbs with my pregnancy. After being placed on that diet, it dawned on me how unhealthy I really was eating. I realized that having a HUGE glass of milk and Carnation Good Start for breakfast was not ideal and 4 bowls of fruit loops is not a balanced dinner ;)