Mediterranean Diet Linked to Lower Risk of Gestational Diabetes: Study - Video

In a recent study published in the journal Nutrition & Diabetes, researchers investigated whether the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) influences the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and discovered that MedDiet before gestation or during pregnancy reduces the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a pregnancy disorder caused by placental hormones interfering with insulin use, leading to health risks for mother and child. Effective blood glucose control through diet is crucial. High intake of saturated fats, carbs, and cholesterol increases GDM risk, while the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), rich in whole grains, vegetables, legumes, and monounsaturated fats, reduces it. Multiple studies suggest the MedDiet lowers GDM risk, but a systematic review is needed to confirm these findings.

In the study, all relevant literature up to August 2023 was reviewed from various databases. Ten articles from 2012 to 2023, comprising two case-control and eight cohort studies, were analyzed. These studies involved 32,959,909 participants aged 18 to 45. MedDiet adherence was measured using MEDAS, AMED, and MSDPS scores, while GDM outcomes were determined by various glucose measurement criteria.

The results showed that higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) significantly reduces the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Case-control studies showed a 75% reduction, while cohort studies reported a 20% reduction.

Subgroup analysis confirmed that the MedDiet benefits both Mediterranean and non-Mediterranean populations. The diet's higher intake of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, olive oil, and legumes, along with its high polyphenol content, reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, key factors in GDM development.

The MedDiet's role in reducing obesity and insulin resistance further lowers GDM risk. Additionally, long-term red meat consumption is linked to higher GDM risk, while MedDiet’s components, like whole grains and nuts, help regulate blood glucose levels and reduce appetite.

The findings highlighted that high adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) before or during pregnancy is robustly associated with a reduced risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Therefore, the MedDiet should be recommended to women of reproductive age to help prevent the development of GDM and other adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Reference: Jafari Nasab, S., Ghanavati, M., & Nasirian, M. (2024) Adherence to Mediterranean dietary pattern and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Nutrition & Diabetes 14(1); 1-10. doi:10.1038/s41387-024-00313-2