Exercise improves metabolic function and alters the microbiome in rats with gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common pregnancy complication particularly inoverweight/obese women. We developed a unique rat model where glucose intoleranceemerges naturally during pregnancy, mimicking human GDM. The gut microbiome, associated with modulating metabolic health, was altered in females with GDM, predominantly affecting Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. Maternal endurance exercise before and during pregnancy prevented the metabolic dysfunction and altered the gut microbiome, which did not occur with exercise only during pregnancy. Our findings suggest maternal exercise and diet have implications for metabolic and microbiome dysfunction in females with GDM, which may impact long-term maternal and child health