EFFECT OF PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTATION ON FASTING AND POSTPRANDIAL BLOOD SUGAR IN PATIENTS WITH GESTATIONAL DIABETES MELLITUS

Abstract

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) presents a risk for adverse maternal and fetal outcomes, primarily due to hyperglycemia. Interest in probiotics as adjunctive therapy for glycemic control has increased, but their specific effects on fasting blood sugar (FBS) and postprandial blood sugar (PPBS) remain uncertain.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of a multi-strain probiotic supplement on FBS and PPBS in women with GDM.

Methods: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted at a tertiary care center. Sixty newly diagnosed GDM patients meeting inclusion criteria were randomized to receive either a daily probiotic capsule or placebo for four weeks. FBS and PPBS were measured at baseline and after supplementation. Standard diet and lifestyle counseling were administered to all participants.