Vitamin D in gestational diabetes: A broadened frontier

Vitamin D deficiency is very common among women of reproductive age, even during pregnancy. Different studies have yielded vastly different results regarding whether vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy affects the development and progression of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), glycemic control in patients with hyper-glycemia, and maternal-fetal outcomes. In addition, concerns, such as the mechanisms underlying the effect of vitamin D deficiency on glucose metabolism during pregnancy, efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in reducing the risk of developing GDM, and recommended supplemental dose of vitamin D, are yet to be eluci-dated. This article reviewed the latest domestic and international studies in this field, with a focus on the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and GDM, their underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, and the role of vitamin D intervention in the prevention and treatment of GDM. We recommend vitamin D supple-mentation as soon as possible for all pregnant women with vitamin D deficiency, especially those with GDM.

Automated summary

Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy is common among women and can potentially affect the development and outcomes of gestational diabetes mellitus, but research results vary. Understanding the mechanisms of vitamin D deficiency on glucose metabolism and implementing vitamin D intervention are crucial for preventing and treating GDM.