Ejercicio y prevención de obesidad y diabetes mellitus gestacional

Abstract

Obesity and type 2 diabetes are increasing worldwide and generate high morbidity and mortality and affect the patient, family and the health system. Low levels of physical activity are contributing to the epidemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes in women of childbearing age. Most women are sedentary or stop exercising when they realize the pregnancy, which predisposes to the development of gestational diabetes and excessive weight gain during pregnancy. There is ample evidence that exercise during pregnancy is safe for mother and fetus and provides physiological, psychological, metabolic benefits, and improving physical capacity in a manner similar to the preconception period. Although not defined the exact exercise prescription during pregnancy, achieve currently recommended level of physical activity at least 16 MET H per week, or preferably 28 MET H per week, and increase the intensity of exercise over 60% of heart rate reserve to reduce the risk of obesity or gain excessive weight during pregnancy, gestational diabetes and perhaps hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Therefore, exercise may be an appropriate strategy to prevent these pathologies leading to morbidity and mortality maternal and fetal.