Low-Glycaemic-Index Diet and Glycaemic Variability in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) prevalence is rising worldwide, and glycaemic variability, not only mean
glucose, predicts adverse pregnancy outcomes. Objective: To synthesise evidence on whether low-glycaemic-index (LGI) diets
reduce glycaemic variability and improve outcomes in GDM. Methods: Narrative review of published randomised trials,
systematic reviews/meta-analyses, and mechanistic studies from PubMed, Cochrane, and Europe PMC. Findings: LGI diets
modestly lower postprandial excursions and insulin requirements without consistently altering birthweight or macrosomia.
Conclusions: LGI counselling is a safe adjunct, not a substitute, for individualised glycaemic monitoring in GDM.