Nutritional Interventions in Gestational Diabetes: A Nursing Perspective in Obstetrics

Abstract

The study assessed the effectiveness of individualized nutritional counseling conducted by nurses in managing gestational diabetes mellitus. The intervention emphasized self-management and dietary adherence by organizing balanced meals, selecting foods with low glycemic index, and counting carbohydrates. This cross-sectional study identified 140 pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus via convenient sampling. The research employed a systematic approach through structured questionnaires for data collection and hemoglobin A1c tests to assess glycemic regulation. The findings revealed substantial enhancements in glycemic control, as evidenced by the noteworthy reduction in hemoglobin A1c levels from 5.9% before the intervention to 5.4% following it (P < 0.05). In addition to the decreased glycemic index of consumer foods, dietary modifications increased fiber consumption and decreased carbohydrate intake (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the participants demonstrated a substantial adherence to the nutritional plan (84.7%) and conveyed contentment with the counseling they received (4.3 on a five-point scale). The research documented favorable changes in levels of physical activity and enhancements in health outcomes for both the mother and the newborn. These improvements encompassed reduced rates of preterm birth, fewer C-sections, and a decline in neonatal hypoglycemia instances.