A diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) during pregnancy can be concerning, but with proper management, most women can have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies. GDM requires careful attention to blood sugar levels to prevent complications for both mother and child. At LCC Hospital in Kochi, Kerala, leveraging Clinically Supported Lifestyle Correction (Based on Dr. Jolly Thomson’s Approach), we provide comprehensive, personalized care to help you navigate GDM with confidence.
When blood sugar levels are high during pregnancy, glucose can pass to the baby, leading to excessive growth (macrosomia) and increasing the risk of:
For the Baby: Larger birth size, breathing problems, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) after birth, jaundice, and a higher risk of childhood obesity and Type 2 Diabetes later in life.
For the Mother: Increased risk of needing a C-section, high blood pressure (preeclampsia), and significantly higher risk (up to 50%) of developing Type 2 Diabetes within 5-10 years post-delivery.
Effective management is crucial for minimizing these risks.
At LCC Hospital, our CSLC CAP (Clinically Supported Lifestyle Correction – Based on Dr. Jolly Thomson’s Approach) program is meticulously designed to support expectant mothers diagnosed with GDM. This evidence-based program provides personalized, medically supervised interventions focusing on sustainable lifestyle changes that are safe and highly effective in controlling blood sugar during pregnancy.
Here’s how CSLC CAP provides invaluable support for managing gestational diabetes:
Personalized Nutritional Therapy:
Expert counseling in prenatal nutrition and diabetes, adapting advice to local diets.
Development of a precise meal plan focusing on carbohydrate counting, appropriate portion sizes, balanced meals, and regular eating times to maintain stable blood sugar.
Emphasis on whole, unprocessed foods and fiber.
Tailored Physical Activity Recommendations:
Guidance on safe and effective pregnancy-appropriate exercises that help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
Customized activity plans based on your fitness level and comfort, encouraging regular, moderate movement.
Comprehensive Blood Glucose Monitoring and Education:
Thorough instruction on how to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly at home and interpret your readings.
Education on the impact of food, exercise, and stress on glucose, empowering you to make informed daily decisions.
Stress Management Techniques:
Guidance on mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and adequate rest to manage stress, which can affect blood sugar.
Post-Delivery Planning and Prevention:
Education on post-delivery blood sugar testing and strategies to significantly reduce the mother’s risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes later in life.
Guidance on breastfeeding, which can benefit both mother and baby’s metabolic health.
Managing gestational diabetes is a team effort, and with the right support, you can achieve a healthy pregnancy outcome. At LCC Hospital in Kochi, our CSLC CAP (Clinically Supported Lifestyle Correction – Based on Dr. Jolly Thomson’s Approach) program offers the expert guidance, evidence-based strategies, and compassionate support to empower you through this journey. Talk to doctor about how our CSLC CAP approach can support your pregnancy.