The role of exercise in the management of gestational diabetes mellitus

The Leicester Lifestyle and Health Research Group (LLHRG)

Aim: This research program aims to investigate the impact of exercise on the management and outcomes of gestational diabetes, focusing on metabolic, physiological, and psychological aspects for both the mother and the fetus. 

Background Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affects approximately 5-10% of pregnancies and is associated with increased maternal and fetal complications, including macrosomia, preeclampsia, and an elevated long-term risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Exercise is a promising intervention for managing GDM by improving insulin sensitivity, regulating blood glucose levels, reducing maternal weight gain, and enhancing psychological well-being. Both aerobic and dynamic resistance training have demonstrated benefits in managing GDM, although the optimal exercise prescription remains unclear. A novel intervention in this context is the use of isometric exercise training, which involves static muscle contractions without joint movement. Isometric exercise training has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce blood glucose levels, lower blood pressure, and improve psychological wellbeing, which are important adaptations for pregnant women managing GDM. Given the low-impact nature of isometric exercises, they offer a promising and accessible (home based) additional exercise option for pregnant women with GDM, especially for those who may find completing the recommended weekly dosage of traditional aerobic or dynamic resistance training challenging. Furthermore, isometric exercise training may help contribute to the mitigation of long-term metabolic risks for both mothers and offspring, including reducing the likelihood of postpartum type 2 diabetes.

Methods: This prospective randomised controlled trial will be embedded within the MRC funded DODGE trial and include three arms; 1) control (standard care) group, 2) traditional exercise intervention (aerobic and dynamic resistance training) group, 3) traditional exercise intervention plus isometric exercise training group.

In total, this PhD research project will aim to recruit 75 women from diverse backgrounds, who are 12-16 weeks’ pregnant with high risk of gestational diabetes. Following baseline assessment, the women will be randomly divided into group 1, 2 or 3 as detailed above. The women will return for follow-up data collection at 20, 24-28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy and at 6-months after the baby is born.

The primary outcome of the DODGE trial is the mother’s fasting glucose at 24-28 weeks on a standard test for gestational diabetes. Key secondary outcomes of focus for this PhD project will be blood pressure (resting and ambulatory) and indices of cardiac structure and function.

 Expected outcomes and impact: This PhD program aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of exercise in managing gestational diabetes and its broader implications for both maternal and child health, potentially shaping future clinical guidelines for prenatal care.

To apply

Please refer to our web page. Read the How to Apply section carefully and use the application link at the bottom of the web page to apply

https://le.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/funded-opportunities/leicester-lifestyle--and-health-rg

Enquiries to the project supervisor Dr Jamie O’Driscoll [Email Address Removed]

Further enquiries to [Email Address Removed] (Include Leicester Lifestyle and Health E3 studentship in the subject line)