The Effect of a Low Glycemic Index Diet on Glucose Challenge Test Results in Women at risk for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

• Main Author: Southgate, Katherine
• Other Authors: Wolever, Thomas M. S.
• Language: en_ca
• Published: 2012
• Subjects: carbohydrates; pregnancy; glycemic index; glucose challenge test; 0570; 0380
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/1807/32627

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus develops in 3.7-18% of Canadian women, and can cause serious maternal-fetal complications. Low-GI foods have been shown to increase β-cell function in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance. Theoretically, this effect should improve glucose tolerance and reduce the risk of gestational hyperglycemia. Thus, we aimed to explore the effects of a low-GI diet on glucose challenge test (GCT) results in women at risk for GDM. Women were randomized to receive education during pregnancy focused on incorporation of low- or medium- to high-GI foods. Key foods were provided to assist compliance. Information was obtained from medical records and questionnaires. Ninety-four (94) women completed the study. After adjustment for confounding variables, there was no significant difference in GCT values between intervention groups. Results suggest that low-GI foods do not affect blood glucose control during pregnancy.