Diabetes in pregnancy--dietary management
Serci, I.
Practising Midwife 11(6): 43-46; 48-49, 51
2008
ISSN/ISBN: 1461-3123 PMID: 18564524 Document Number: 616396
The provision of adequate energy and nutrients in the woman with DM is essential for normal fetal growth. However, dietary modifications including exercise are essential to normalise blood glycaemic levels and prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, the evidence surrounding the nutritional management in GDM has been controversial. Dornhorst and Frost (2002) state that not only are there conflicting guidelines on nutritional management but disagreement as to the effectiveness of this on pregnancy outcomes. NICE (2008) has issued guidelines on the management of DM before, during and after pregnancy. Dietary prescriptions should include personal preference, body weight and type and level of exercise, blood glucose levels, ketone levels and any medications taken for the DM. Midwives must empower women to manage their condition through making appropriate and acceptable choices for their health and that of their baby.