Alterations of fatty acid profiles in gestational diabetes and influence of the diet

Highlights • Higher saturated fatty acids (FA) and lower polyunsaturated FA levels in blood are characteristics of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). • FA profile may be modified by an appropriate diet to prevent GDM and its complications. • Studies support the recommendation that women at risk of GDM should increase docosahexaenoic acid intake. • Little is known on the associations between FA profiles and GDM early in pregnancy; therefore, there is a need for more studies.