The Role of the Gut Microbiota in the Prevention and Management of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Are We There Yet?

J Perinat Neonatal Nurs. 2020 Jul/Sep;34(3):195-198. doi: 10.1097/JPN.0000000000000497.

Abstract

Current nonpharmacological approaches, including diet and exercise interventions, for preventing and treating gestational diabetes mellitus are effective for less than 50% of women. Recent evidence suggests that the gut microbiome is integrally involved in maternal glucose homeostasis. Changes to the composition and metabolic behavior of the gut microbiota may play a role in the development and persistence of gestational diabetes mellitus. Thus, there is growing interest in targeting the maternal gut microbiome for preventing and managing pregnancy-related diseases including gestational diabetes mellitus. Future progress may come from a systems biology approach to elucidate the role of the gut microbiota in maternal glucose homeostasis.

MeSH terms

  • Diabetes, Gestational / metabolism
  • Diabetes, Gestational / prevention & control*
  • Female
  • Gastrointestinal Microbiome / physiology*
  • Gastrointestinal Tract / microbiology*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Microbiota / physiology*
  • Nervous System / microbiology
  • Peripartum Period
  • Postpartum Period / metabolism
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / prevention & control