What is a gestational diabetes blood sugar levels chart? It is simply a chart which helps you to manage your blood sugar levels during pregnancy to help ensure optimal health for you and your baby. You see, a gestational diabetes pregnancy is considered a high risk pregnancy. However, if a woman takes careful care to keep her blood sugar levels under control, then essentially the pregnancy is as normal as any other pregnancy.
So, how do you use a gestational diabetes blood sugar levels chart? There are actually several different types of charts available. For example, a gestational diabetes blood sugar levels chart may give you a general description of where your blood sugar levels should be according to whether or not food has been eaten. This type of chart can be used a quick reference to help you determine where your blood sugar levels should be. It is recommended that you find a gestational diabetes blood sugar levels chart online or get one from your doctor, but for the most part they usually contain the following information.
- 80 mg/dl to 120 mg/dl are ideal levels for just waking up
- 2 hours after a meal blood sugar levels should be below 160 mg/dl
- Blood sugar levels should again be between 80 mg/dl and 120 mg/dl before dinner
- Before going to bed blood sugar should be between 100 mg/dl and 140 mg/dl
Managing Your Blood Sugar Levels
A gestational diabetes blood sugar levels chart will help you to be sure that your blood sugar levels are on target, but what else can you do to ensure that you blood sugar stays at a normal level? Here are some tips:
- Avoid foods high in carbohydrates such as white bread, rolls, sweets, rice, and corn.
- Eat foods that are high in fiber like vegetables.
- If you’re craving a sweet snack, try eating some fruits.
- Eating at the same times everyday will help keep your blood sugar levels from fluctuating. Snacks should be eaten at regular times too.
- Staying active helps you control your weight and the baby’s weight; it also keeps your blood sugar levels from rising too high. Ask your doctor about what exercise options you have before starting your exercise routine.
- Plan meals carefully prior to eating, and if you do eat something sweet be sure that you take away another type of carbohydrate from your meal.