Role of Antioxidants and Physical Exercise in the Management of Gestational Diabetes

The incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus is increasing all over the world and becoming the problem of significant importance. The literature reports indicate that worldwide prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus has found to range from 0.6 to 13.7 %. The prevalence in India varies from 3 to 15 %. Gestational diabetes is a condition in which women without previously diagnosed diabetes exhibit high blood glucose levels during pregnancy, especially during their third trimester. Gestational diabetes is caused when the insulin receptors do not function properly. Diet plays a very important role in increasing the blood lipids. Various antioxidants have been developed for oxidative stress treatment in diabetes mellitus, including the use of vitamins and supplements as well as the use of some components of plants and fresh fruits which have demonstrated antioxidant effect in diabetes mellitus patients. Women at high risk for gestational diabetes mellitus may be able to prevent it with lifestyle management during pregnancy. In those who develop gestational diabetes mellitus, dietary improvements and regular physical activity are frequently sufficient to manage hyperglycemia, although insulin and oral medications may be used when these changes are not enough. Management of blood glucose levels ensures better pregnancy outcomes and improves the health of both the mother and the fetus.