Nutrition as Prevention Factor of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as a glucose tolerance disorder with onset or first recognition during pregnancy. GDM is associated with several adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Management to reduce the incidence of GDM could decrease the incidence of these complications. Modification of nutrition in the prevention of GDM is postulated. The vital issue in GDM prevention is the implementation of proper dietary patterns, appropriate physical activity, and a combination of diet and lifestyle modifications. However, intervention studies examining the effects of diet and lifestyle on GDM prevention are contradictory. The aim of this study was to review the scientific evidence on nutritional prevention strategies, including diet and supplementation of some substances such as probiotics, micro/macroelements, fiber, myoinositol, and vitamins that may be effective in reducing the risk of GDM. The presented article is a narrative review. This article indicates that certain nutritional factors may have some benefit in preventing GDM. However, further studies in a variety of populations and large groups of patients are needed. At present, no definitive conclusions can be drawn as to the best intervention in the prevention of GDM.

Risk prediction of gestational diabetes mellitus with four machine learning models

“…In addition, early detection and prevention measures, such as diet and exercise interventions, can reduce medical expenditure and psychological burden in patients. Therefore, it is important to identify high-risk pregnant women and implement early intervention measures [43][44] ; In particular, risk factors that can be modi ed through behavior must be monitored carefully. Suitable interventions include lifestyle changes and exercise and dietary changes such as intake of hemeiron and red meat, avoiding fried food and animal fat, and controlling intake of sugar, oil, and sugar-sweetened beverages.…”

Association between weight gain during 24 gestational weeks and pregnancy outcomes: A retrospective study in Chinese population

“…Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is de ned as a glucose tolerance disorder, where pregnant women's glucose value fall at or above the following thresholds: fasting 5.1 mmol/L, 1 hour 10.0 mmol/L and 2 hour 8.5 mmol/L, with rst recognition during pregnancy and has caused a tremendous healthy and economic burden in China (22,23). All women included in this study received a 75 g Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) during 24-28 weeks of gestation.…”

Detailed Review on Gestational Diabetes Mellitus with Emphasis on Pathophysiology, Epidemiology, Related Risk Factors, and its Subsequent Conversion to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

“…Intake of protein from animal origin increased the risk of GDM by 50% when compared to intake of protein sourced from vegetables which was protective by 30%. Replacing 5% energy of animal protein for protein of plant origin reduced the risk of GDM by 51% 44 . Increased instances of fast food intake pre pregnancy was associated with a significant increased risk or incidence of developing GDM.…”