Gestational Diabetes and Heart Disease: Understanding the Link

Gestational diabetes affects a significant percentage of pregnant women in the United States each year, with a rising prevalence. While it typically resolves after childbirth, recent studies indicate potential long-term implications, including an increased risk of heart disease later in life.

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a temporary condition that emerges during pregnancy and impacts how the body processes sugar or glucose. This condition commonly develops in the second or third trimester due to the release of specific hormones and increased maternal weight.

Does Gestational Diabetes Subside?

Following delivery, the drop in pregnancy hormones usually reduces insulin resistance. However, some women may have underlying insulin resistance tendencies, leading to a potential progression to type 2 diabetes. Metabolic alterations from pregnancy may not entirely revert on their own, with breastfeeding offering some support in managing blood sugar levels.

The Connection to Heart Disease

Gestational diabetes and type 2 diabetes can instigate lasting changes in blood vessels, contributing to cardiovascular complications. Elevated blood sugar levels can impact endothelial function, induce oxidative stress and inflammation, reduce nitric oxide levels, and impede blood flow. Additionally, high blood sugar can disrupt cholesterol processing, raising the risk of atherosclerosis.

Risks and Concerns

Research indicates that gestational diabetes can significantly heighten the likelihood of type 2 diabetes, which, in turn, is a major risk factor for heart disease. Women with a history of gestational diabetes may experience increased coronary artery calcium levels, potentially leading to plaque buildup in arteries that can trigger severe problems like heart attacks.

Preventing Heart Disease After Gestational Diabetes

Regular monitoring for diabetes and heart health postpartum is crucial, alongside adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle. This includes consuming low-glycemic fruits and non-starchy vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Engaging in regular physical activity like walking, cycling, or strength training can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce cardiovascular strain.

In conclusion, understanding the link between gestational diabetes and heart disease is vital for proactive health management. By prioritizing regular screenings, healthy eating habits, and exercise, individuals can mitigate risks and promote long-term cardiovascular wellness.

Empowering oneself with knowledge and proactive care is key to safeguarding the cardiovascular system and ensuring a healthier future, irrespective of medical history.

The post Gestational Diabetes and Heart Disease: What’s the Connection? appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is alternative medicine called?

Alternative medicine is a broad term that describes any alternative approach to healing. There are many types of alternative medicine. However, they all share the same premise: health care should be grounded in natural substances and practices, not chemical medicines.

Alternative medicine may include acupuncture, homeopathy or herbalism, naturopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, osteopathic manipulation, traditional Chinese medicine and reflexology.

Many alternative doctors claim that their therapies have improved patient satisfaction and reduced side effects. These claims cannot be proven scientifically because the mainstream medical system has largely ignored evidence-based alternatives to medicine.

What's the difference between alternative medicine or complementary medicine?

Alternative medicine refers only to treatment methods that are not recommended by mainstream doctors but have been proven to provide beneficial results for certain conditions. Some examples include homeopathy and aromatherapy, acupuncture, naturopathy, Ayurveda (TCM), traditional Chinese medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, and traditional Chinese medicine. Complementary medicines are therapies that can be used alongside traditional medicine. These include vitamins, minerals and herbs, as well as amino acids, enzymes and probiotics.

Both forms of medicine can be used but are not recommended by many doctors due to lack of evidence or safety concerns.

There is not consensus among health professionals regarding the best approach for integrating CAM in patient care.

Many CAM treatments are based off theories that have been around for thousands years. Clinical trials conducted over the past two decades have shown that some of these treatments might be effective.

A variety of studies have suggested that acupuncture might relieve pain. The preliminary data suggests that acupuncture may decrease nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy. Studies have also shown that acupuncture may reduce symptoms of irritable-bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome.

Other CAM methods may have therapeutic effects on conditions like HIV/AIDS and diabetes, heart disease or hypertension, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and rheumatoidarthritis.

Although there is still much to learn about the effectiveness and safety of CAM, experts are unanimous in their belief that it can be used to treat various conditions.

As a result, CAM practitioners are becoming more popular as a way to treat common illnesses.

Despite growing popularity, many remain confused about the definition of “alternative” or complementary medicine.

What's the difference between holistic medicine versus alternative medicine?

Holistic medicine considers the whole person-mind, body spirit, soul and spirit. It considers all aspects a person's wellbeing, including the emotional, spiritual, as well as environmental factors, that are often ignored by traditional medicine. Alternative medicine addresses specific conditions, such as asthma, allergies, arthritis, and other ailments.

Who uses alternative medicine?

Alternative medicine is used for many reasons.

They want to avoid harmful drugs and surgery.
They believe that natural remedies work better.
They prefer noninvasive treatments.
They want to spend less money.
Natural products make them feel safer.
They desire more control over their healthcare decisions.
They are ready to take charge of their health.
They want a healthier world.
They are looking for less stress in life.
They want greater freedom when choosing their doctors, and in selecting their healthcare plans.
They want their child to receive a better educational experience.
They want to eat healthy food for their family and themselves.
They want safe, effective drugs.

What are the main advantages of holistic medicine over conventional medicines?

Many cultures and religions around the globe have been using holistic medicine for thousands of year. They were based upon ancient knowledge and experienced.

These medicines are safe, efficient, natural, and inexpensive. Side effects are less common than with prescription drugs.

They are also beneficial for your overall health and well-being.

They can prevent disease and promote your overall well-being.

They could even be used to treat heart disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, asthma and depression.

There are hundreds of traditional medicines in the world. Each has its own benefits.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 80% of the world's population still relies on traditional treatment methods for their injuries and illnesses.

A reported half-billion people use traditional herbal remedies to get primary healthcare.

The market for complementary therapies worldwide is estimated to be $22.2 million by 2020.

To avoid side effects from conventional treatments, people are turning to alternative methods of medical care.

People often turn to complementary therapies for treatment when they are not able to respond to conventional treatments. They might also consider them before considering surgery or medication.

There are many good reasons to choose complementary therapies.

To improve the quality of your life
To reduce stress levels
Relaxation
To ease pain
To enhance immunity
Support for those with serious illnesses
To boost energy
To control weight
To maintain good nutrition
To improve sleep patterns
To treat chronic conditions

What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?

The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on surgery and drugs as the primary treatment. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not considered a substitute for conventional treatment but rather an addition to helping patients who want to take control of their healthcare by choosing what they believe is most appropriate.

Naturopathy, on the other hand is used to supplement conventional medical practices. It is a holistic approach to treating the whole body, mind, as well as the spirit. There are many forms of naturopathy: Ayurveda and Traditional Native American Medicine as well as Functional Medicine.

It is important not to forget that some CAM modalities overlap or complement conventional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. Naturopaths, however, tend to recommend lifestyle changes rather than prescription medication.

Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths could prescribe medication, if needed.

There are differences between naturopathic medicines and other CAM modalities.

Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
Naturopaths will work with the patient's family medicine and may refer patients outpatients to specialists, if necessary.
Naturopathic doctors are licensed by the provincial licensing boards. CAM practitioners, however, are self-regulated.
Naturopathy emphasizes prevention, wellness, and education about diet & exercise.
Naturopaths strongly emphasize lifestyle factors, which include nutrition, sleep, stress management, exercise, and mental well-being.
Naturopharmacists specialize on the treatment of certain conditions with botanicals or minerals.
Naturopodists receive individualized care according to the unique needs of each patient.
The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for Naturopaths.
Provincial regulatory bodies grant licenses to naturopatrists.
The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors has registered Naturopaticians.
The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia is responsible for licensing Naturotherapists.
Naturobiotic therapists are licensed by the United States National Board of Medical Examiners.
Homeopaths are licensed by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
Holistic refers to the belief in all aspects of one's life, including spiritual, physical, and emotional. Holistic doctors will look at all of these aspects rather than just one.

Complementary and Alternative Healthcare: Is it Evidence-based?

The evidence base for complementary and alternative medicine is still evolving, but there are many reasons why people choose these therapies. They may have tried conventional treatments but found them ineffective, or they may want to try an alternative therapy because they believe it offers benefits over conventional care. Alternately, they may look into complementary and alternative medicine as part of a holistic approach for health. It is vital that patients verify that all complementary and alternative medicines are supported by scientific evidence. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure if a treatment is effective. It can save you both time and money.

Statistics

The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)

External Links

How To

What type of products are used for holistic medicine?

This product can be described as “natural” without necessarily being organic. Although they may have been grown using pesticides or natural fertilizers, the products were also processed in safer ways for human health. Some herbs can cause allergic reactions and may need to have different preparations depending on the individual. Groceries sell more herbs than health food stores. These herbs often have higher levels of herbicides than those sold at grocery stores.

The majority of herbal supplements are made from dried plants. Some people prefer buying them in liquid form, which tends to be cheaper. But, liquid herbs are not necessarily safer. Liquid herbs can lose nutrients during processing. The product may lose its original potency. Most herbal supplements are not subject to quality control before they are sold.

Usually, herbs and spices are added to food after it has been cooked. These condiments include ketchup and mustard, salad dressings, barbecue sauces, soup mixtures, and marinades.

Supplements can be taken orally (by the mouth). Many vitamins and minerals are available in tablets. Other vitamins and mineral are also available in capsule form.

Homeopathic remedies, which are highly diluted substances, can be derived from any plant, animal or mineral. They are intended to stimulate the body’s healing mechanisms. They are “homeopathic” and do not have the same effect as regular medicines. They instead activate the body's immune system and restore balance. Homeopathic remedies can be considered safe and non-toxic. They are widely used in Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Acupuncture is the practice of inserting fine needles along specific meridians in your body. The practice is based upon a traditional Chinese medical theory, which states that there are energy channels through the body through which life force flows. Blockages in these channels can lead to illness, according to the theory. By stimulating certain points along the meridian lines with fine needles, energy flow is believed to be restored, and the body returns to normal functioning.

Chiropractors adjust the spine to correct misalignments. American doctor Daniel David Palmer devised this method in 1895. He claimed he could diagnose illnesses and cure diseases by manipulating the vertebrae. His methods included spinal adjustments and muscle tests. He also percussion.

Chiropractic has seen a lot of popularity in recent years. Many people believe chiropractic works better than conventional medicine when it comes to back pain.

Massage therapy includes rubbing, tapping or tapping on muscles, joints, or other body parts. Massage can help loosen tight muscles, ease tension, and relax sore muscle. Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports, reflexology or myofascial release are all methods used by massage therapists.

Reflexology uses pressure to be applied to specific areas in the feet and hands by using thumb pads, fingers, or toes. Reflexologists believe that this technique stimulates the body’s natural ability heal.

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils obtained from plants to alleviate stress, enhance well-being, and elevate moods. Because of their chemical composition, essential oils can be beneficial for a variety of health conditions such as arthritis treatment and headache relief. There are many types of aromatherapy, including:

Craniosacral Treatment uses gentle touch for pain relief and discomfort. Cranial is the skull. Sacrum in Latin refers to “sac”, and Cranial Sacral Therapy combines both. This therapy uses light pressure to apply pressure to specific areas on the head and neck, shoulders or arms. It also involves moving the hands around the body of the patient.

Cupping therapy is performed by applying cups to the skin to create suction and draw out toxins. Cupping may also be used in combination with acupuncture (burning herbs), or as a detox method.

Dietary supplements are oral or topical products that contain vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, amino acids, enzymes, probiotics, antioxidants, and fatty acids. Dietary Supplements Health and Education Act of 1992 regulates dietary supplements. To be sold legally, a diet supplement must meet two conditions. It must be a “dietary component,” which means it contains more than 1% of a vitamin or mineral, herb, or any other botanical listed on Food and Drug Administration's Generally Recognized as Safe List. It must be manufactured in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices. That means its ingredients were properly handled at every stage of production.

Electrotherapy uses electrical currents in order to stimulate nerves or muscles. Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) is the most popular form of electrotherapy. The skin electrodes used to place TENS devices allow for low-level electrical pulses. These pulses activate brain receptors to block pain signals. There are also electromagnetic therapy options such as magnetic field therapy, interferential current therapy, and ultrasound therapy.

Energy healing is based in the belief that everyone has inherent healing abilities. Also, that our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs can have an impact on our physical health. Modern practitioners accept that energy healing is possible, even though it has been practiced since ancient times. However, there are many layers to energy. Emotional energy is one layer. The second layer is called mental energy. Others include spiritual, psychic, chakras vital, life force prana, Kundalini and biofield as well as quantum fields. These energies may be connected to the entire universe, according to some. Some believe that these energies can be used to heal other people using only their minds. However, scientific evidence supporting the use of energy medicine remains limited.

Energy psychology is about studying the effects of emotions on physiological functions, and vice versa. Sometimes, it's considered an alternative therapy to psychotherapy. It focuses less upon past events and more on helping clients alter their present behavior. Although energy psychology does not have a particular theoretical framework, it draws from many disciplines including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), transactional analysis, interpersonal psychoanalysis and attachment theory.

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