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December 2, 2025 By Parveen Nake 3 Comments

What Gestational Diabetes Can Do To You & Your Unborn Child

We all know about Diabetes Mellitus to some extent as Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that prevents the body from utilising glucose completely or partially. It is characterised by raised glucose concentration in the blood and alterations in carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism. But have you ever heard of Gestational Diabetes or Pregnancy Diabetes?

Gestational Diabetes is a high blood sugar (glucose) condition that develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after giving birth. It can happen at any stage of pregnancy, but is more common in the second or third trimester. Insulin requirements goes up one to three times in pregnancy. During normal pregnancy the level of plasma insulin is raised by the action of placental hormones thus placing a burden on the insulin secreting cells of the pancreatic islets. The pancreas may be unable to meet these demands in women genetically predisposed to develop both types of diabetes. Long term studies show that some 80% of women with gestational diabetes ultimately develop permanent clinical diabetes requiring treatment.

What Causes Gestational Diabetes?

The causes of Gestational Diabetes is not known clearly yet. Some, but not all women with gestational diabetes are found to be overweight before getting pregnant or have a family history of diabetes. It is more common in Native American, Alaskan Native, Asian and Black women, but white women may develop it due to poor lifestyle.

Are There Tests to Determine it?

Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is a confirmatory test. The OGTT measures blood glucose after you fast for at least 8 hours. Firstly, the blood sample is drawn in fasting state. Then, 75g of glucose dissolved in 250-300 ml of water is given, Lemon juice may be added for flavour and to prevent nausea. Then the blood specimens are collected every 30 mins for 2-3 hours after the administration of glucose.

High blood glucose levels at any two or more blood test times – Fasting, 1 hour, 2 hours or 3 hours – mean you have Gestational diabetes.

Complications During Pregnancy

If blood sugar is not controlled, it can lead to problems for both maternal and foetal health. Uncontrolled diabetes during the first trimester of pregnancy increases the risk of abortions and congenital malfunctions in the foetus. Some of the major consequences are:

High Blood Pressure (Preeclampsia): Preeclampsia is a potentially dangerous pregnancy complication characterised by high blood pressure. Due to the high blood pressure levels of the mother, the protein in urine spikes up and swelling in fingers and toes and lower body persists. High blood pressure can be harmful to both – the mother and the unborn baby. It might lead to the baby being born early and also could cause seizures or a stroke (a blood clot or a bleed in the brain that can lead to brain damage) in the woman during labour or delivery.
An Extra Large Baby: Uncontrolled Diabetes in the mother causes the baby’s blood sugar to be high. The baby tends to “overfeed” and grows extra-large. Besides, causing discomfort to the mother, it can lead to problems during delivery causing prolonged labour pain which might need a C-section to deliver the baby. The baby can be born with nerve damage due to pressure on the shoulder during delivery.
Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycaemia): People with diabetes who take insulin or other medications can develop blood sugar that is too low or hypoglycaemia. Low blood sugar can be very serious and even fatal if not treated quickly.

How to Manage Gestational Diabetes

The main modes of treatment of Gestational Diabetes include:

1. Eating a Healthy Diet: Dietary measures are an essential part of the treatment of diabetic patients whether they are on diet alone or on metformin drug or insulin. Carbohydrate restriction impairs insulin sensitivity and reversed by high carbohydrate diet but it needs to be maintained between 60-65% of total calories. So include more complex carbohydrates or polysaccharides like Multi-grain flour, Oats, Muesli, Granola, Amaranth, Pearl Millet (Bajra), Finger Millet (Ragi), Quinoa, etc. Studies have shown that raising carbohydrates does not adversely affect the fasting blood glucose levels, glucose tolerance or insulin requirements provided that total calories are not increased.

Along with carbs, include more protein-rich foods like pulses and lentils, Kidney beans (Rajma), Soya Bean, peas, beans, peanuts, milk and dairy products like yogurt, buttermilk, cottage cheese (paneer), eggs, chicken, etc. to ensure weight gain and prevent osteomalacia during pregnancy. Inclusion of fibre like fruits and green leafy vegetables are must as it improves glucose metabolism without increasing insulin secretion. It increases the intestinal transit-time, delay gastric emptying slow glucose absorption.

2. Drugs or Insulin Treatment: Metformin or Insulin therapy is the accepted medical management of gestational diabetes. Insulin is the first drug of choice and metformin can be considered after 20 weeks of gestation. Insulin must be taken without delay if it is suggested by the doctor.

3. Exercise: Stay Active to help keep your blood sugar under control. Exercise regularly – before, during and after pregnancy. Moderate exercise such as brisk walking for 30mins a day for 5 times a week is a good goal to set.

4. Monitoring Blood Sugar Often: Be aware that your blood sugar can change very quickly, becoming too high or too low depending on what you eat and how much you exercise and your growing baby’s blood sugar also varies several times during the day. Check your blood sugar level as often as directed by the doctor and any time you have symptoms.

By adopting these measures one can enjoy a healthy Antenatal period. For more articles on managing Diabetes, check out Healthy Reads or for further information or guidance, reach out to our certified experts by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health. Images shown are for representation purposes only and may not depict the exact recommendations or outcomes.

October 30, 2025 By Priyanka Mangla 3 Comments

The Early Signs & Symptoms of Diabetes

Diabetes has become one of the most common lifestyle disorders affecting both, urban and rural areas alike. You can attribute this to overeating, obesity, stressful, busy and sedentary lifestyles which lead to the early symptoms of diabetes. This also includes lack of proper nutrition which leads to disturbed glucose metabolism. Heredity is also a major factor in the development of the disease. It is usually misunderstood that eating only refined sugar in excess will lead to diabetes but that’s not the case. Excess intake of proteins and fats also leads to development of diabetes because ultimately they are also metabolized and converted to glucose.

Diabetes is characterized by the elevated levels of glucose in the blood and urine. It is of 2 types:

Type 1: is present since birth due to complete absence of insulin
Type 2: Develops later in life due to the deficiency of insulin

There are other variants too like gestational diabetes which occur during pregnancy. Read more about it here: https://goqii.com/blog/what-gestational-diabetes-can-do-to-you-your-unborn-child/

Since untreated or uncontrolled diabetes gradually starts affecting the functioning of major organs of the body, like the heart, kidneys, brain, nervous system, eyes, etc. it is important to diagnose and manage diabetes as early as possible.

How Can You Diagnose It?

It is diagnosed by a blood test, in which the blood glucose in the fasting state (normal values range between 80-120 mg/100 ml of blood) and 2 hours after having the meal (normal values, 140 mg/100 ml of blood) are measured. Now, even before getting your blood glucose tested, there are certain signs and symptoms which our body shows which indicate the development of diabetes.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes

3P’s: Polyphagia (increased hunger), polydipsia (increased thirst), polyuria (increased urination). Remember these 3 P’s and look out if you are experiencing these.
Loss of weight: In spite of increased hunger, there will be a very sharp loss of weight, which again is a warning symptom. This is happening because the glucose is getting lost in the urine, also due to insufficient insulin, the available glucose is not getting utilized to provide energy and to function, the body has started utilizing the glucose which is stored in the muscles and organs.
Getting tired: Loss of weight due to this condition leads to early tiredness. The person gets tired easily both mentally and physically.
Dry mouth: Despite drinking more water, there will be dryness in the mouth.
Paleness: appears because of anemia.
Frequent infections and delayed healing of wounds: happens due to excess of glucose in the blood.
Loss of libido.

In its early stages, we can easily prevent it from progressing further to a full blown Diabetes Mellitus with:

Regular exercise: for a minimum of 30 minutes to maintain optimum weight. Engage yourself in light games.
Proper diet: Which includes salads with meals (this slows down digestion and prevents an immediate spike in blood sugar levels) and excluding refined sugar, alcohol, smoking and high fat foods.
Yoga & meditation: take care of the stress levels and curb the disease from getting any worse. Pranayama (Breath Control) and certain yoga asanas like Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana), Shoulder Stand (Sarvangasana) and various others help in stimulating the pancreas to produce insulin .

There are certain home remedies which can be used as a supportive measure. I want to discuss here the two most important ones.

Bitter gourd (Karela): is highly beneficial in the treatment of diabetes. It contains an insulin-like principle, known as plant-insulin which has been found effective in lowering the blood and urine sugar levels.
Java Plum (Jamun): The seeds contain a glycoside ‘jamboline’ which has the power to check the pathological conversion of starch into sugar in cases of increased production of glucose. In the Homoeopathic system of medicine, we have a very effective medicine prepared from this fruit to treat diabetes.

We hope this article helps you manage Diabetes and helps you spot the early signs and symptoms. Do leave your thoughts in the comments below! For more articles on managing Diabetes, check out Healthy Reads.

For further guidance and motivation by certified experts, join the GOQii Diabetes Care program. It’s India’s only diabetes program that is driven by Smart Science and Personal Coaching to improve Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS), Postprandial Blood Sugar (PP), and reduce HbA1c levels. You can subscribe here: https://store.goqii.com/diabetescare.

#BeTheForce Against Diabetes!

September 10, 2025 By GOQii Leave a Comment

How to Manage the Break Moment: Life Beyond Six Months on GLP-1

For many people on GLP-1 therapy, the six-month mark is a significant milestone. This is often a planned part of the treatment protocol, where doctors advise a pause or dose reduction to assess how the body responds independently. While this “break moment” can bring a wave of uncertainty, it’s also a powerful opportunity to trust your new habits and embrace the next phase of your health journey.

Understanding the Break Moment

GLP-1 medications work by regulating appetite, slowing digestion, and supporting blood sugar control. Over several months, they create the space for people to reset their relationship with food, manage cravings, and rebuild their confidence in metabolic health.

When the treatment is paused, however, it can feel like stepping into unknown territory. Questions naturally arise:

Will my hunger return?
What if I start regaining weight?
Was my progress down to the medication, or have I truly changed?

These concerns are valid, but the reality is that GLP-1 was never intended as a permanent crutch. Instead, it acts as a tool to support change while healthier patterns take root. The break moment is about testing and trusting those patterns.

Three Strategies for Navigating the Transition

1. Rely on the Habits You’ve Built

Over the course of six months, most people adapt to smaller portions, find satisfying food choices, and develop healthier eating habits. These habits are now the anchors. The focus should be on continuing with consistency rather than reverting to restrictive diets or old cycles of guilt.

2. Reset the Mind Alongside the Body

This stage is as much about psychology as it is about physiology. It helps to:

Accept that appetite fluctuations are normal.
Recognise that six months of change has strengthened not only metabolism but also mindset.
Frame the break as the beginning of a new chapter, not the end of progress.

3. Stay Connected and Accountable

Support makes a difference. Whether through medical guidance, coaching, or trusted peers, staying accountable encourages steadiness. Tools such as journaling, tracking progress, or participating in support groups can help maintain focus.

Embracing the New Normal

Rather than viewing the break as a setback, it can be reframed as a checkpoint—a moment to pause, evaluate, and continue forward. Just as a cyclist wobbles before finding balance when training wheels come off, it may feel uncertain at first. With time, however, confidence builds.

GLP-1 therapy provides the initial reset, but the long-term journey belongs to the individual. By leaning on established habits, aligning mindset, and maintaining support, the break moment can transform into proof of resilience and self-trust.

Ultimately, wellness is not defined by medication alone, but by the ability to sustain health and balance when external supports are adjusted. The break moment is not the end of the road it is a reminder that the journey is still unfolding, and you are ready to continue it.

#BeTheForce

August 11, 2025 By Gitanjali Bahl 2 Comments

Prevent Workplace Injuries: Simple Tips to Stay Pain-Free at Work

Spending long hours at your desk? You’re not alone. Many office workers experience neck, back, and wrist pain due to poor posture and an improper workstation setup. The good news? With a few simple ergonomic adjustments and regular movement breaks, you can prevent discomfort and stay injury-free at work. From adjusting your chair height to taking short movement breaks, small changes can make a huge difference to your physical well-being. Let’s explore some easy ways to protect yourself from workplace injuries.

How to Avoid Injuries at Work

Adjust Your Workstation for Better Posture
- Screen Position: Your laptop or desktop screen should be at eye level to prevent slouching. If needed, use a stand or place your laptop on a stack of books.
- Chair Support: Your seat should provide proper neck and back support, aligning with the natural curve of your spine. If your chair lacks support, consider adding a lumbar cushion.
- Arm & Shoulder Alignment: Arms should be fully supported and parallel to the desk. If your elbows sit higher or lower than your desk, it puts strain on your shoulders and wrists.
- Foot Positioning: Keep your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest to maintain good posture and reduce pressure on your lower back.
Take Regular Movement Breaks
- Set a Reminder: Every 30-45 minutes, stand up, stretch, or take a short walk.
- Move Around: Walk to get water, use the printer, or take a quick lap around the office.
- Stretch Your Muscles: Simple neck, wrist, and back stretches help release tension and improve circulation.
Reduce Strain on Your Neck & Wrists
- Use a Hands-Free Device: If you take a lot of calls, a Bluetooth headset or speakerphone will stop you from cradling your phone between your neck and shoulder.
- Keyboard & Mouse Placement: Your keyboard and mouse should be within easy reach to avoid excessive stretching or wrist bending.
- Hand & Wrist Exercises: Roll your wrists 10 times in each direction and stretch your fingers every few hours.
Manage Workplace Fatigue
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydrated muscles and joints are more prone to injury. Keep a water bottle at your desk and sip regularly.
- Improve Air & Lighting: Ensure your workspace has good ventilation and natural light to reduce fatigue and eye strain.
- Stress Management: Poor posture often worsens under stress. Take deep breaths, do a quick desk meditation, or listen to calming music to stay relaxed.

Home Treatment for Work-Related Pain & Injuries

If you start feeling aches and pains, here’s what you can do to relieve discomfort:

Apply Ice Packs to reduce inflammation.
Use Proper Supports like lumbar cushions or wrist rests.
Rest & Recover – Allow muscles to heal by taking a break from repetitive movements.
Seek Medical Advice if pain persists or worsens.
Strengthen & Stretch – Regular flexibility and strength exercises will help prevent further injuries.

Your workstation setup and daily habits play a huge role in preventing injuries. By making small adjustments and taking regular movement breaks, you can protect yourself from discomfort and keep your mind and body feeling great throughout the workday. 💡 Try implementing these simple changes and see the difference in how you feel! 💬 Have you experienced any workplace injuries? What helped you recover? Share your thoughts in the comments! #BeTheForce Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health. Images shown are for representation purposes only and may not depict the exact recommendations or outcomes.