The role of lifestyle interventions in the prevention of gestational diabetes

Abstract

Gestational diabetes is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, increased costs, and long-term risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in the mother. Observational data have shown an association between reduced weight gain, healthy eating, and physical activity and reduced rates of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Despite this, most randomized controlled trials of lifestyle interventions to prevent GDM have been negative. Dietary approaches appear to be more successful than exercise or a combination of diet and exercise at decreasing GDM. Reasons for negative studies may include lack of power, lack of intervention uptake, and severity of placenta mediated insulin resistance. Future studies should be powered for a reduction in GDM, monitor lifestyle changes closely, and include a psychological component in the intervention.