Systematic Review on Prevention of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) During Early Pregnancy Through Lifestyle Change (Medical Nutrition Therapy and Exercise)

Abstract

Background: Hyperglycaemia in pregnancy and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is becoming one of the major public health issue, across the globe and in India. Worldwide, 1 in 10 pregnancies is associated with diabetes, 90% of which are GDM. GDM which are undiagnosed or treated inadequately lead to significant maternal & foetal complications. The effects of GDM has consequences on both mother and foetus. The importance of preventing GDM holds the key to prevention of the diabetes and metabolic syndrome epidemic sweeping the world. Methodology: Based on inclusion-exclusion criteria, 9 papers were taken up for this review. Data from these papers were extracted on the bases of characteristics of the area of study, type of intervention, main findings of the articles and the general characteristics of study such as publication year, study design, author’s name etc. These 9 studies were found on prevention of GDM through lifestyle change (medical nutrition therapy (MNT) and physical activity). Result: 8 studies were categorised into various populations. The reviewed literature showed that 6 trials gave dietary counselling and physical activity advice to the women in IG. They made different types of diet individualized as per the need of the woman. Out of these, 4 trials reported that they have observed significant difference and other 2 observed no difference between their Intervention group (IG) and control group (CG), in reducing the incidence of GDM. 2 trials did not include dietary counselling as an intervention, they only used physical activity as their intervention to reduce the incidence of GDM and they did not observed any significant results. Conclusion: In conclusion, this review indicates that diet and lifestyle intervention can exert a beneficial effect on glycaemic load among the women who are at high risk of GDM. Low GI diet and exercise can be effective in managing GDM. Funding Statement: None to declare. Declaration of Interests: None to declare.