Effect of probiotic yogurt on gestational diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and aims: Gestational diabetes mellitus is one of the important complications of pregnancy and is related to many adverse events. There is evidence that probiotics can be considered a preventive and therapeutic option in gestational diabetes mellitus. In this meta-analysis, we have focused on the effect of probiotic yogurt as a natural product on gestational diabetes mellitus. Methods: A systematic literature search was done through PUBMED/Medline, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and EBSCO up to December 2022. This meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines for the evaluation of the effect of probiotic yogurt on gestational diabetes mellitus. Results: Four manuscripts with a total of 533 participants were included in this meta-analysis. There was a statistically significant association between probiotic yogurt and reduced risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (Pooled OR 0.35; 95% CI 0.19-0.62; I-2 = 0.0%). Furthermore, the mean reduction in the fasting plasma glucose was significantly higher in the probiotic yogurt groups (Hedges' g = -0.37; 95% CI -0.68 to -0.05; I-2 = 0.0%). Conclusion: This meta-analysis suggests that probiotic yogurt lowers the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus. Also, it is related to a significant reduction in fasting plasma glucose. These findings promise that probiotic yogurt could be regarded as a safe and low-cost therapy and preventive option for gestational diabetes mellitus. However, more randomized controlled trials with different doses and more probiotic strains with varying systems of delivery are warranted. (c) 2023 Research Trust of DiabetesIndia (DiabetesIndia) and National Diabetes Obesity and Cholesterol Foundation (N-DOC). Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.