Modulation of Gut Microbiota by Xylo-Oligosaccharides Helps Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Patients with Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy

Abstract

This study aimed to elucidate the therapeutic importance of xylo-oligosaccharides in modulating the gut microbiota for treating intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy complicated by gestational diabetes mellitus. Pregnant women diagnosed with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy and gestational diabetes mellitus were enrolled in this study. The experimental group received continuous xylo-oligosaccharides treatment, whereas the placebo was administered to the control group. Comparisons were made between the two groups before and after therapy regarding oral glucose tolerance test, blood glucose levels, hemoglobin, oral glucose tolerance test, insulin, liver function indicators, and itching conditions. In terms of glucose metabolism indicators, the experimental cohort had significantly reduced (P < 0.05) post-treatment blood glucose, hemoglobin A1c, and fasting insulin levels compared to those in the control cohort (P < 0.05). The experimental participants indicated notably decreased levels of liver function indicators (P < 0.05) compared to the control participants (P < 0.05). The experimental cohort revealed a significant reduction in itching scores (P < 0.05), which were significantly lower than those in the control cohort (P < 0.05). Xylo-oligosaccharides can effectively reduce blood glucose levels in gestational diabetes mellitus in women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, improve liver function indicators, and alleviate itching symptoms in pregnant women by modulating gut microbiota.