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Article
Physical Activity and Dietary Behaviors Associated With Weight Gain and Impaired Glucose Tolerance Among Pregnant Latinas
Advances in Nutrition (2012)
  • Lisa Chasan-Taber, University of Massachusetts - Amherst
Abstract
Pregnancy has been proposed as a critical period for the development of subsequent maternal overweight and/or obesity. Excessive gestational weight gain is, in turn, associated with maternal complications such as cesarean delivery, hypertension, preeclampsia, impaired glucose tolerance, and gestational diabetes mellitus. Although there is substantial evidence that targeting at-risk groups for type 2 diabetes prevention is effective if lifestyle changes are made, relatively little attention has been paid to the prevention of excessive gestational weight gain and impaired glucose tolerance during pregnancy. Latinos are the largest minority group in the United States, with the highest birth and immigration rates of any minority group and are disproportionately affected by overweight and obesity. However, due to cultural factors, socioeconomic factors, and language barriers, Latinos have had limited access to public health interventions that promote healthy lifestyles. Therefore, the objective of this article is to review the scientific evidence regarding the association between physical activity, dietary behaviors, and gestational weight gain and impaired glucose tolerance among Latinas. A second objective is to discuss how lifestyle interventions including weight management through diet and exercise could be successful in reducing the risk of excessive gestational weight gain and gestational diabetes mellitus. Finally, recommendations are provided for future lifestyle intervention programs in this population with a focus on translation and dissemination of research findings.
Publication Date
January, 2012
Publisher Statement
doi: 10.3945/​an.111.001214
Citation Information
Lisa Chasan-Taber. "Physical Activity and Dietary Behaviors Associated With Weight Gain and Impaired Glucose Tolerance Among Pregnant Latinas" Advances in Nutrition Vol. 3 (2012)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/lisa_chasan-taber/62/