Gestational Diabetes Mellitus-Prevention by Life Style Modification

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as a type of diabetes first diagnosed during pregnancy Incidence of GDM varies from 2% to 14% globally and it is increasing. Maternal glucose has been associated with a risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in a linear manner. High intake of saturated fat, low intake of polyunsaturated fat, and excessive gestational weight gain may increase the risk of GDM. Physical activity is also associated with decreased risk of GDM. Lifestyle modifications have been shown to be a valuable adjunctive therapy of GDM. Prevention of gestational weight gain by dietary and physical activity counseling have found favorable results and structured aerobic exercise training has been shown to decrease birth weight of the newborns.