Associação entre padrões alimentares e o diabetes gestacional: uma revisão de literatura

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Pregnancy is a period marked by intense physiological and hormonal changes that are essential for fetal development. Gestational diabetes mellitus arises within this context and is characterized by hyperglycemia first detected during pregnancy, without prior diagnosis of diabetes. It is associated with genetic, hormonal, and nutritional factors. Dietary patterns refer to the combination of foods and beverages regularly consumed and reflect eating habits that can directly influence the risk of developing metabolic conditions such as gestational diabetes. OBJECTIVES: This literature review aimed to analyze the association between dietary patterns and the risk of developing gestational diabetes mellitus during pregnancy. METHODOLOGY: This is an integrative literature review with a descriptive approach. The search was conducted in the PubMed, SciELO, and Web of Science databases between the years 2014 and 2024, using the descriptors: “dietary patterns” AND “gestational diabetes” AND “pregnancy.” Articles that were fully available and addressed the relationship between dietary patterns and gestational diabetes were included. RESULTS: Dietary patterns during pregnancy can significantly influence the risk of developing gestational diabetes mellitus. Diets rich in unprocessed foods and dark green vegetables are associated with a reduced risk, whereas the consumption of ultra-processed foods, sugar-rich foods, and processed meats may increase the risk of GDM. Social factors such as income and food security also affect the eating habits of pregnant women. CONCLUSION: The analyzed studies suggest that healthier dietary patterns are associated with a lower incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus; however, more studies are needed to draw definitive conclusions. Thus, this review reinforces the importance of studies that support public and private nutritional strategies aimed at maternal health.