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Evidenced-Based Nutrition for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

  • Diabetes and Pregnancy (M-F Hivert and CE Powe, Section Editors)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

To review the latest evidence for dietary interventions for treatment of gestational diabetes (GDM).

Recent Findings

High-quality systematic reviews demonstrate no major advantages between the low-carbohydrate or calorie-restricted diets. However, the low glycemic index (GI) diet, characterized by intake of high-quality, complex carbohydrates, demonstrated lower insulin use and reduced risk of macrosomia in multiple reviews. Recent evidence suggests the Mediterranean diet is safe in pregnancy, though trials are needed to determine its efficacy over conventional dietary advice. Currently, there are insufficient data to support the safety of the ketogenic diet for the treatment of GDM.

Summary

The low GI diet may improve maternal and neonatal outcomes in GDM. The liberalized carbohydrate intake is less restrictive, culturally adaptable, and may improve long-term maternal adherence. Further research is needed to establish the optimal, most sustainable, and most acceptable medical nutrition therapy for management of women with GDM.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medicine – Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada

    Amita Mahajan

  2. Department of Medicine – Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine - University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada

    Lois E. Donovan & Jennifer M. Yamamoto

  3. Diabetes in Pregnancy Clinic, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Canada

    Rachelle Vallee

  4. Cumming School of Medicine, Richmond Road Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, University of Calgary, 1820 Richmond Road SW, Calgary, AB, T2T 5C7, Canada

    Jennifer M. Yamamoto

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  4. Jennifer M. Yamamoto
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AM and JY contributed the design and drafting of the paper. AM prepared the manuscript, which all authors critically reviewed. All the authors were fully responsible for all the content, and editorial decisions were involved at all stages of the manuscript development and have approved the final version.

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Correspondence to Jennifer M. Yamamoto.

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Mahajan, A., Donovan, L.E., Vallee, R. et al. Evidenced-Based Nutrition for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus. Curr Diab Rep 19, 94 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-019-1208-4

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