In an individual participant data and network meta-analysis of 104 randomized trials including nearly 36,000 pregnant women, lifestyle interventions—particularly physical activity and combined diet/physical activity programs—were associated with a modest reduction in the risk of gestational diabetes compared with standard care, with effects varying by diagnostic criteria but not most maternal characteristics. These findings highlight that structured lifestyle modification in pregnancy can prevent gestational diabetes and support integrating such interventions into antenatal care while addressing inequities in engagement and delivery.

Source: The BMJ