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World J Diabetes. Dec 15, 2013; 4(6): 256-262
Published online Dec 15, 2013. doi: 10.4239/wjd.v4.i6.256
Published online Dec 15, 2013. doi: 10.4239/wjd.v4.i6.256
Prescribing physical activity to prevent and manage gestational diabetes
Sheri R Colberg, Human Movement Sciences Department, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529, United States
Kristin Castorino, Sansum Diabetes Research Institute, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States
Lois Jovanovič, Sansum Diabetes Research Institute, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States
Author contributions: Colberg SR completed the majority of the writing of the manuscript; Castorino K and Jovanovič L edited and revised it.
Correspondence to: Sheri R Colberg, PhD, Human Movement Sciences Department, Old Dominion University, 1006B Student Recreation Center, 48th Street and Powhatan Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23529, United States. scolberg@odu.edu
Telephone: +1-757-6833356 Fax: +1-757-6834270
Received: October 8, 2013
Revised: October 26, 2013
Accepted: November 15, 2013
Published online: December 15, 2013
Revised: October 26, 2013
Accepted: November 15, 2013
Published online: December 15, 2013
Core Tip
Core tip: Gestational diabetes mellitus is the most prevalent metabolic disorder during pregnancy. Uncontrolled hyperglycemia during pregnancy is potentially harmful to both mother and fetus. Pregnant women should be advised how to safely increase their physical activity during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Giving women an appropriate exercise prescription can encourage them to participate in physical activity safely and effectively throughout pregnancy to prevent and/or manage gestational diabetes. Engaging in 30 min of moderate intensity physical activity on most, if not all, days of the week has been adopted as a recommendation for all pregnant women.