A low glycemic index diet in the management of gestational diabetes mellitus: The Malaysian Experience

Barakatun-Nisak Mohd Yusof, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia

Keywords

Gestational diabetes · Glycemic index · Blood Glucose.

Excessive postprandial hyperglycemia during pregnancy has been associated with substantial adverse health outcomes for women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Use of low glycemic index (GI) diet may be beneficial in the management of GDM. This randomized controlled study investigated the effects of low GI diet on glycemic-related parameters and dietary intake in women with GDM. A total of 40 participants managed with diet only were randomized to either low GI diet (Low GI; n=20) or carbohydrate exchange (CE; n=20) dietary plan. The 2 groups were similar at baseline. At 4 weeks, fructosamine decreased significantly from baseline in the both groups (p< 0.05). Low GI group had significantly better reduction in 1-hour post-breakfast glucose levels (6.7 ± 1.0 mmol/l) compared to the CCE group (7.6 ± 1.5 mmol/l). Similarly, low GI meal resulted in significantly lower capillary blood glucose levels at 30, 60, and 120 mins in comparison to high GI meal (p< 0.05). Low GI group had significantly higher dietary calcium (p< 0.05) and tended to have a higher dietary fiber intake (p=0.05) than the CE group. Dietary GI in the LGI group was significantly lower by 7 units versus the CE group (p< 0.05). This study shows that Low GI and CE produced similar improvement in overall glycemic control. Furthermore, those following a low GI diet may have additional benefits from lowering 1-hour post-breakfast blood glucose levels, increasing calcium and fiber intake. However, these results warrant further evaluation for longer duration during pregnancy.

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