Maternal Dietary Patterns and Gestational Diabetes Risk: A Case-Control Study

The association between ultra-processed food and common pregnancy adverse outcomes: a dose-response systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Given the increasing incidence of negative outcomes during pregnancy, our research team conducted a dose-response systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the relationship between ultra-processed foods (UPFs) consumption and common adverse pregnancy outcomes including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), preeclampsia (PE), preterm birth (PTB), low birth weight (LBW), and small for gestational age (SGA) infants. UPFs are described as formulations of food substances often modified by chemical processes and then assembled into ready-to-consume hyper-palatable food and drink products using flavors, colors, emulsifiers, and other cosmetic additives. Examples include savory snacks, reconstituted meat products, frozen meals that have already been made, and soft drinks.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was performed using the Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases up to December 2023. We pooled relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Our analysis (encompassing 54 studies with 552,686 individuals) revealed a significant association between UPFs intake and increased risks of GDM (RR = 1.19; 95% CI: 1.10, 1.27; I2 = 77.5%; p < 0.001; studies = 44; number of participants = 180,824), PE (RR = 1.28; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.59; I2 = 80.0%; p = 0.025; studies = 12; number of participants = 54,955), while no significant relationships were found for PTB, LBW and SGA infants. Importantly, a 100 g increment in UPFs intake was related to a 27% increase in GDM risk (RR = 1.27; 95% CI: 1.07, 1.51; I2 = 81.0%; p = 0.007; studies = 9; number of participants = 39,812). The non-linear dose-response analysis further indicated a positive, non-linear relationship between UPFs intake and GDM risk Pnonlinearity = 0.034, Pdose-response = 0.034), although no such relationship was observed for PE (Pnonlinearity = 0.696, Pdose-response = 0.812).

CONCLUSION

In summary, both prior to and during pregnancy, chronic and excessive intake of UPFs is associated with an increased risk of GDM and PE. However, further observational studies, particularly among diverse ethnic groups with precise UPFs consumption measurement tools, are imperative for a more comprehensive understanding.

Gestational diabetes mellitus: genetic factors, epigenetic alterations, and microbial composition

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common metabolic disorder, usually diagnosed during the third trimester of pregnancy that usually disappears after delivery. In GDM, the excess of glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids results in foetuses large for gestational age. Hyperglycaemia and insulin resistance accelerate the metabolism, raising the oxygen demand, and creating chronic hypoxia and inflammation. Women who experienced GDM and their offspring are at risk of developing type-2 diabetes, obesity, and other metabolic or cardiovascular conditions later in life. Genetic factors may predispose the development of GDM; however, they do not account for all GDM cases; lifestyle and diet also play important roles in GDM development by modulating epigenetic signatures and the body's microbial composition; therefore, this is a condition with a complex, multifactorial aetiology. In this context, we revised published reports describing GDM-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), DNA methylation and microRNA expression in different tissues (such as placenta, umbilical cord, adipose tissue, and peripheral blood), and microbial composition in the gut, oral cavity, and vagina from pregnant women with GDM, as well as the bacterial composition of the offspring. Altogether, these reports indicate that a number of SNPs are associated to GDM phenotypes and may predispose the development of the disease. However, extrinsic factors (lifestyle, nutrition) modulate, through epigenetic mechanisms, the risk of developing the disease, and some association exists between the microbial composition with GDM in an organ-specific manner. Genes, epigenetic signatures, and microbiota could be transferred to the offspring, increasing the possibility of developing chronic degenerative conditions through postnatal life.

The effects of plant-based dietary patterns on the risk of developing gestational diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The worldwide prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a significant health challenge. Plant-based dietary patterns are a series dietary habits that emphasized foods derived from plant sources more and from animal foods less. Now, no consensus exists on the effects of plant-based dietary patterns on the incident of GDM.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to estimate the effects of plant-based dietary patterns on the risk of developing GDM.

METHODS

This systematic review was conducted following the checklist of PRISMA. Six electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wangfang, and Chinese Scientific Journals Database were searched from inception to November 20, 2022. A fixed or random effect model was used to synthesize results of included studies. Then, subgroup analysis, meta-regression and sensitivity analysis were performed to assure the reliability and stability of the results.

RESULTS

Ten studies including 32,006 participants were identified. The results of this study showed that the better adherence to the plant-based dietary patterns was related to the lower risk of developing GDM (RR = 0.88[0.81 to 0.96], I2 = 14.8%). The slightly stronger association between plant-based diets and the risk of developing GDM was found when healthy plant-based dietary pattern index was included in pooled estimate (RR = 0.86[0.79 to 0.94], I2 = 8.3%), compared with that unhealthy one was included (RR = 0.90[0.82 to 0.98], I2 = 8.3%).

CONCLUSION

The plant-based dietary patterns are associated with a lower risk of developing GDM. Furthermore, healthy plant-based dietary patterns are more recommended than unhealthy one. It is significant to help medical staff to guide pregnant women to choose reasonable diets.

Molecular pathways and nutrigenomic review of insulin resistance development in gestational diabetes mellitus

Gestational diabetes mellitus is a condition marked by raised blood sugar levels and insulin resistance that usually occurs during the second or third trimester of pregnancy. According to the World Health Organization, hyperglycemia affects 16.9% of pregnancies worldwide. Dietary changes are the primarily alternative treatment for gestational diabetes mellitus. This paper aims to perform an exhaustive overview of the interaction between diet, gene expression, and the metabolic pathways related to insulin resistance. The intake of foods rich in carbohydrates can influence the gene expression of glycolysis, as well as foods rich in fat, can disrupt the beta-oxidation and ketogenesis pathways. Furthermore, vitamins and minerals are related to inflammatory processes regulated by the TLR4/NF-κB and one carbon metabolic pathways. We indicate that diet regulated gene expression of PPARα, NOS, CREB3L3, IRS, and CPT I, altering cellular physiological mechanisms and thus increasing or decreasing the risk of gestational diabetes. The alteration of gene expression can cause inflammation, inhibition of fatty acid transport, or on the contrary help in the modulation of ketogenesis, improve insulin sensitivity, attenuate the effects of glucotoxicity, and others. Therefore, it is critical to comprehend the metabolic changes of pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus, to determine nutrients that help in the prevention and treatment of insulin resistance and its long-term consequences.

The Effects of a Western Diet vs. a High-Fiber Unprocessed Diet on Health Outcomes in Mice Offspring

Diet influences critical periods of growth, including gestation and early development. We hypothesized that a maternal/early life diet reflecting unprocessed dietary components would positively affect offspring metabolic and anthropometric parameters. Using 9 C57BL-6 dams, we simulated exposure to a Western diet, a high-fiber unprocessed diet (HFUD), or a control diet. The dams consumed their respective diets (Western [n = 3], HFUD [n = 3], and control [n = 3]) through 3 weeks of pregnancy and 3 weeks of weaning; their offspring consumed the diet of their mother for 4.5 weeks post weaning. Measurements included dual X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans, feed consumption, body weight, blood glucose, and insulin and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in the offspring. Statistical analyses included one-way ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc analysis. The offspring DEXA measures at 5 and 7.5 weeks post parturition revealed higher lean body mass development in the HFUD and control diet offspring compared to the Western diet offspring. An analysis indicated that blood glucose (p = 0.001) and HbA1c concentrations (p = 0.002) were lower among the HFUD offspring compared to the Western and control offspring. The results demonstrate that diet during gestation and early life consistent with traditional diet patterns may influence hyperglycemia and adiposity in offspring.

Maternal dietary components in the development of gestational diabetes mellitus: a systematic review of observational studies to timely promotion of health

BACKGROUND

There is ample evidence that considers diet as an important factor in the prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The aim of this review is to synthesise the existing evidence on the relationship between GDM and maternal dietary components.

METHODS

We performed a systematic bibliographic search in Medline, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (Lilacs) and the Latin American Nutrition Archive (ALAN) of regional and local literature, limiting the searches to observational studies published between 2016 and 2022. Search terms related to nutrients, foods, dietary patterns and the relationship to GDM risk were used. The review included 44 articles, 12 of which were from America. The articles considered different topics about maternal dietary components as follows: 14 are about nutrient intake, 8 about food intake, 4 combined nutrient and food analysis and 18 about dietary patterns.

RESULTS

Iron, processed meat and a low carbohydrate diet were positively associated with GDM. Antioxidant nutrients, folic acid, fruits, vegetables, legumes and eggs were negatively associated with GDM. Generally, western dietary patterns increase GDM risk, and prudent dietary patterns or plant-based diets decrease the risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Diet is considered one of the causes of GDM. However, there is no homogeneity in how people eat nor in how researchers assess diet in different contextual conditions of the world.

Dose-response association between dietary patterns and gestational diabetes mellitus risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

Although dietary factors are relevant modifiable risk factors for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), the exact association between dietary patterns and GDM remains controversial. Therefore, a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of observational studies were conducted to summarize the association between dietary patterns and risk of GDM. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and EMbase databases were systematically searched for publications up to March 10, 2020. All observational studies which assessed the risk of GDM according to the categories of healthy or unhealthy dietary patterns derived by either a priori or a posteriori methods were eligible to be included. Pooled effect sizes for the highest vs. lowest categories of healthy/unhealthy dietary patterns were calculated using the random-effects model. Linear and nonlinear dose-response analyses were performed to determine dose-response associations. Thirty-one studies were included, of which 26 studies (80,849 participants) assessed healthy dietary pattern and 15 studies (32,965 participants) assessed the unhealthy dietary pattern. Individuals with a higher adherence to the healthy dietary pattern were less likely to be affected by GDM (RR = 0.86; 95% CI: 0.76-0.96; I ² = 56.2%). There was a marginally significant association between unhealthy dietary patterns and GDM risk (RR = 1.28; 95% CI: 0.99-1.67; I ² = 74.7). Significant linear associations were observed between healthy (p = .011) and unhealthy (p = .009) dietary patterns and GDM risk. Pregnant women with a healthier dietary pattern (a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) had lower risk for GDM. In contrast, higher adherence to an unhealthy dietary pattern was associated with increased risk of GDM. Further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm the results.

Maternal Consumption of Ultra-Processed Foods-Rich Diet and Perinatal Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The consumption of ultra-processed food (UPF)-rich diets represents a potential threat to human health. Considering maternal diet adequacy during pregnancy is a major determinant for perinatal health outcomes, this study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze studies investigating the association between maternal consumption of a UPF-rich diet and perinatal outcomes. Conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, five electronic databases and gray literature using Google Scholar and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global were searched up to 31 May 2022. No restrictions were applied on language and publication date. Two reviewers independently conducted the study selection and data extraction process. Meta-analysis was conducted according to the random-effects model. In total, 61 studies were included in the systematic review and the overall population comprised 698,803 women from all gestational trimesters. Meta-analysis of cohort studies showed that maternal consumption of UPF-rich diets was associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (odds ratio (OR): 1.48; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.17, 1.87) and preeclampsia (OR: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.15, 1.42). Neonatal outcomes showed no association. The overall GRADE quality of the evidence for the associations was very low. The findings highlight the need to monitor and reduce UPF consumption, specifically during the gestational period, as a strategy to prevent adverse perinatal outcomes.

Peri-conceptional diet patterns and the risk of Gestational diabetes mellitus in South Indian women

OBJECTIVE

To identify peri-conceptional diet patterns among women in Bangalore, and examine their associations with risk of gestational diabetes mellitus.

DESIGN

BANGLES, started in June 2016, was a prospective observational study, in which women were recruited at 5-16 weeks' gestation. Peri-conceptional diet was recalled at recruitment, using a validated 224-item food frequency questionnaire. GDM was assessed by a 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test at 24-28 weeks' gestation, applying WHO 2013 criteria. Diet patterns were identified using principal component analysis and diet pattern-GDM associations were examined using multivariate logistic regression, adjusting for 'a priori' confounders.

SETTING

Antenatal clinics of two hospitals, Bangalore, South India.

PARTICIPANTS

785 pregnant women of varied socio-economic status.

RESULTS

GDM prevalence was 22%. Three diet patterns were identified: a) High-diversity, urban (HDU) characterised by diverse, home-cooked and processed foods was associated with older, more affluent, better-educated and urban women; b) Rice-fried snacks-chicken-sweets (RFCS), characterised by low diet-diversity, was associated with younger, less-educated, and lower income, rural and joint families; c) Healthy, traditional vegetarian (HTV), characterised by home-cooked-vegetarian and non-processed foods was associated with less-educated, more affluent, and rural and joint families. The HDU pattern was associated with a lower GDM risk (aOR: 0.80 per SD, 95% CI: 0.64, 0.99, p=0.04) after adjusting for confounders. BMI was strongly related to GDM risk and possibly mediated diet-GDM associations.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings support global recommendations to encourage women to attain a healthy pre-pregnancy BMI and increase diet-diversity. Both healthy and unhealthy foods in the patterns indicate low-awareness about healthy foods and a need for public-education.

The role of nutrition in the development and management of gestational diabetes among Iranian women: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

We aimed to review existing evidence on nutrition associations with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) development and management among Iranian women.

Methods

Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, SID, and Magiran were searched up to August 2020. Observational studies on associations between circulatory markers of vitamins and minerals, dietary intakes, and GDM and clinical trials of the effects of nutritional supplementations or dietary modifications on management or prevention of GDM among Iranian women were selected.

Results

We reviewed 49 publications. Pooled analyses revealed that GDM women had lower serum vitamin D (-8.31 nmol/l (95% CIs= -14.4, -2.19), higher serum iron (26.2 μg/dl (95% CIs= 2.52, 49.8), ferritin (24.1 ng/ml (95% CIs= 15.0, 33.4), and haemoglobin (1.14 g/dl (95% CIs: 0.32, 1.96) levels than non-GDM women. Single studies found the inverse associations of the Mediterranean diet, dietary approaches to stop hypertension diet, plant-based dietary index, and the direct associations of dietary acid load and dietary inflammatory index with the odds of GDM. Vitamin D supplementation early in pregnancy prevented GDM in two clinical trials. In two studies, iron supplementation's effect on GDM in non-anemic women was inconsistent. Pooled analyses of probiotic supplementation in women with GDM showed no significant impact on maternal glycemia.

Conclusions

Vitamin D supplementation early in pregnancy may reduce the incidence of GDM. There is no compelling evidence that vitamin D or probiotics can help with GDM management. There is currently inadequate data to recommend a specific dietary pattern to prevent GDM in Iranian women.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-021-00944-7.

A healthy dietary pattern with a low inflammatory potential reduces the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus

Purpose

An optimal diet for lowering the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is still to be defined, but may comprise of nutrient intakes, dietary patterns, diet quality, and eating frequency. This study was designed to investigate the contribution of diet in developing GDM in a comprehensive way.

Methods

The dietary intake of overweight or obese women, a risk group for GDM (n = 351), was assessed using 3-day food diaries and diet quality questionnaires in early pregnancy. Eating frequency and nutrient intakes were calculated, and dietary patterns identified using principal component analysis. The inflammatory potential of the diet was determined by calculating the dietary inflammatory index (DII^®) and energy-adjusted DII (E-DII™). GDM was diagnosed with an oral glucose tolerance test at 24–28 gestational weeks.

Results

Higher adherence to ‘healthier dietary pattern’ characterized by consumptions of vegetables and rye bread associated with a reduced risk of GDM (adjusted OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.11–0.70). Higher E-DII score, indicating pro-inflammatory diet, was associated with a 27% higher risk of GDM (adjusted OR 1.27; 95% CI 1.08–1.49) for each E-DII point. In the evaluation of nutrient intakes, total fat, saturated fatty acids (SFAs), and trans fatty acids were higher and fiber lower in women developing GDM compared to women not developing GDM (all p < 0.05). Intakes of total fat, SFAs, and trans fatty acids were also significant predictors for GDM (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The results emphasize the importance of an overall healthy diet and limitation of foods with SFAs, and other nutrients with a high inflammatory potential in reducing the risk of GDM.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01922791, August 14, 2013.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00394-021-02749-z.

Association of infant feeding patterns with body fat mass and obesity in the first 2 years of life: a longitudinal twin birth cohort study

Childhood obesity is a major public health problem with no effective intervention. We explored the influence of feeding patterns on infants' growth indices within the first 2 years in a twin birth cohort. Dietary intake at 12 months was recorded with a food frequency questionnaire, and dietary patterns were identified by principal component analysis. Milk feeding methods in first 6 months were categorised as breastfeeding or exclusive formula feeding. Correlations between feeding patterns and infants' growth indices were examined via generalised estimating equations. Two dietary patterns were identified and neither of which was related to growth indices. Breastfed infants had a higher body fat mass (BFM) percentage at 12 months, a higher body mass index (BMI) increment from birth to 6 months and a lower BMI increment from 6 to 12 months. Breastfed infants were likely positively correlated with BFM at 12 months; as complementary food was added, the effect of breastfeeding on growth gradually decreased.

Maternal periconceptional nutrition matters. A scoping review of the current literature

BACKGROUND

The importance of nutrition in reproductive health is widely acknowledged with special emphasis given to periconceptional maternal diet and its implications on embryo-fetal development, pregnancy complications, and the health of the offspring.

METHODS

Following the PRISMA guidelines, we searched for literature in PubMed, CINAHL, and WoS to gather newer information on how diet composition influences the concepts from the very early stages of pregnancy and how maternal health may be affected as well. Fifty-six studies published up to June 2020 met the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

With its proportioned and diversified macronutrient composition, the Mediterranean Diet prevents congenital anomalies, preterm birth, hypertensive disorders, and gestational diabetes. Similar dietary patterns rich in vegetables, nuts, fish, and cereals increase the likelihood of conception and have a protective action, mediated by their antioxidant properties, against orofacial clefts, congenital heart and limb defects in the progeny. Conversely, the pro-inflammatory features of western diets, rich in processed foods and low in fruit content, diminish fertility, increase miscarriage rates, and enhance the risk of neural tube defects regardless of folate supplementation.

CONCLUSIONS

It may be concluded that within the multiple dietary options, some of them are soundly associated with beneficial effects for the mother and the newborn.Implications for practiceAn appropriate counseling must be offered to the woman of fertile age to make her aware of how periconceptional nutrition may help fulfill her reproductive expectations.

A Glimpse at the Size of the Fetal Liver-Is It Connected with the Evolution of Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as an impairment of glucose tolerance, manifested by hyperglycemia, which occurs at any stage of pregnancy. GDM is more common in the third trimester of pregnancy and usually disappears after birth. It was hypothesized that the glycemic status of the mother can modulate liver development and growth early during the pregnancy. The simplest modality to monitor the evolution of GDM employs noninvasive techniques. In this category, routinely obstetrical ultrasound (OUS) examinations (simple or 2D/3D) can be employed for specific fetal measurements, such as fetal liver length (FLL) or volume (FLV). FLL and FLV may emerge as possible predictors of GDM as they positively relate to the maternal glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and to the results of the oral glucose tolerance test. The aim of this review is to offer insight into the relationship between GDM and fetal nutritional status. Risk factors for GDM and the short- and long-term outcomes of GDM pregnancies are also discussed, as well as the significance of different dietary patterns. Moreover, the review aims to fill one gap in the literature, investigating whether fetal liver growth can be used as a predictor of GDM evolution. To conclude, although studies pointed out a connection between fetal indices and GDM as useful tools in the early detection of GDM (before 23 weeks of gestation), additional research is needed to properly manage GDM and offspring health.

A dietary pattern rich in fruits and dairy products is inversely associated to gestational diabetes: a case-control study in Iran

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) causes many problems for mother and her neonate. A healthy diet plays an important role in preventing GDM. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between major dietary patterns and the GDM.

METHODS

386 healthy and 306 GDM pregnant women (total 693) completed this case-control study. Basic information and anthropometric indices were recorded, and a food frequency questionnaire was completed. For extracting major dietary patterns, the principal component analysis was performed. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine whether specific dietary patterns are associated to the GDM.

RESULTS

Four dietary patterns were identified: "fruits and dairy products", "red meat and plant-based foods", "snacks and high-fat foods" and "carbohydrate-rich foods". Among these major extracted dietary patterns, "fruits and dairy products" showed an inverse association to the GDM (odds ratio adjusted for confounders: 0.50, confidence interval: 0.284-0.882, p-trend = 0.019, for highest vs. lowest quartile).

CONCLUSIONS

It seems using a healthy dietary pattern such as "fruits and dairy products" may decrease GDM risk.

Dietary patterns and associations between air pollution and gestational diabetes mellitus

The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has been increasing worldwide. Dietary patterns and air pollution are closely related to the occurrence of GDM. No previous study has explored the interaction effect of air pollution exposure and dietary patterns on GDM. We explored the interaction effect between main dietary patterns and pre-pregnancy exposure to air pollution on the development of GDM based on a prospective birth cohort in Northeast China. A total of 2244 participants were included in this study. Factor analysis was used to identify dietary patterns. We found that long-term exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and carbon monoxide (CO) before pregnancy was significantly associated with an increased risk of GDM; the animal foods pattern significantly modified these associations. The sub-group analysis showed that compared with a lower intake in the animal foods pattern (NO₂, odds ratio [OR] = 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.84, 1.35; CO, OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.81, 1.34), higher intake in the animal foods pattern (NO₂, OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.83; CO, OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.76) before pregnancy increased the hazardous effects of NO₂ and CO on GDM development. The intake of animal blood, animal organs, preserved eggs, and processed meat products in animal food pattern could all aggravate the effect of exposure to air pollution due to NO₂ and CO on GDM. Our study demonstrated that there was a significant interaction effect between animal foods pattern and exposure to air pollution on GDM. These results provide further scientific evidence of the associations among air pollution, dietary intake, and GDM, and may help as well as the prevention of GDM.

The relationship between advanced glycation end products and gestational diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a condition in which women without history of diabetes experience hyperglycemia during pregnancy, especially at the second and third trimesters. In women who have had GDM, an elevated body mass index (BMI) may have a substantial impact for persistent hyperglycemia in their lives after gestation. Beyond hyperglycemia, increased local oxidative stress directly promotes the formation of Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs). Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis was aimed to determine the relationship between the level of AGEs and/or related metabolic biomarkers with GDM.

METHODS

Literature search was carried out through visiting electronic databases, indexing services, and directories including PubMed/MEDLINE (Ovid®), EMBASE (Ovid®), google scholar and WorldCat to retrieve studies without time limit. Following screening and eligibility evaluation, relevant data were extracted from included studies and analyzed using Rev-Man 5.3 and STATA 15.0. Inverse variance method with random effects pooling model was used for the analysis of outcome measures at 95% confidence interval. Hedge's adjusted g statistics was applied to calculate the standardized mean difference (SMD) to consider the small sample bias. Besides, meta-regression, meta-influence, and publication bias analyses were conducted. The protocol has been registered on PROSPERO with ID: CRD42020173867.

RESULTS

A total of 16 original studies were included for the systematic review and meta-analysis. Compared with women with pregnant controls, the level of AGE was significantly higher in women with GDM (SMD [95% CI] = 2.26 [1.50‒3.02], Z = 5.83, P < 0.00001; I2 = 97%, P< 0.0001). The BMI was also significantly higher in women with GDM (SMD [95% CI] = 0.97 [0.33‒1.62], Z = 2.98, P = 0.003) compared to controls. Regarding specific and related metabolic biomarkers, there was higher level of HOMA-IR (SMD [95% CI] = 0.39 [0.22-0.55], Z = 4.65, P < 0.0001, after sensitivity analysis) and HbA1c (SMD [95% CI] = 0.58 [0.03‒1.12], Z = 2.07, P = 0.04, after sensitivity analysis) in gestational diabetic women. Subgroup analyses indicated that studies conducted in Asia and Europe, at third trimester of pregnancy and blood/plasma AGE samples showed a significant difference in AGE level among women with GDM compared to pregnant controls. What is more, meta-regression with the sample size (regression coefficient (Q) = -0.0092, P = 0.207) and year of publication (Q = 0.0035, P = 0.984) suggested that the covariates had no significant effect on the heterogeneity.

CONCLUSION

The study indicated that there was a strong relationship between AGE and GDM. Besides, the BMI and other specific biomarkers showed a significant difference between the two groups indicating the high risk of developing long-standing type 2 diabetes and its complications in gestational diabetic women. Early detection of these biomarkers may play a pivotal role in controlling postpartum diabetic complications.

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Harbinger of the Vicious Cycle of Diabetes

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), characterized by a transitory form of diabetes induced by insulin resistance and pancreatic β-cell dysfunction during pregnancy, has been identified as one of the major obstacles in achieving improved maternal and child health. Approximately 9-25% of pregnancies worldwide are impacted by the acute, long-term, and transgenerational health complications of this disease. Here, we discuss how GDM affects longstanding maternal and neonatal outcomes, as well as health risks that likely persist into future generations. In addition to the current challenges in the management and diagnosis of and the complications associated with GDM, we discuss current preclinical models of GDM to better understand the underlying pathophysiology of the disease and the timely need to increase our scientific toolbox to identify strategies to prevent and treat GDM, thereby advancing clinical care.

Dietary Patterns and Dietary Adaptations in Women with and without Gestational Diabetes: Evidence from the Growing Up in New Zealand Study

Diet is a cornerstone of the management of gestational diabetes (GDM). We investigated differences in dietary patterns and dietary adaptations among pregnant women with and without GDM participating in the Growing Up in New Zealand study. Presence of GDM was determined using coded clinical data and plasma glucose results meeting the New Zealand Society for the Study of Diabetes diagnostic criteria. Women answered a food frequency questionnaire and questions regarding dietary changes and information received during pregnancy. Women with GDM had lower adherence scores than those without GDM for 'Junk' (mean (SD) score -0.28 (0.95) versus 0.02 (1.01) p < 0.0005) and 'Traditional/White bread' dietary patterns (-0.18 (0.93) versus 0.01 (1.01) p = 0.002). More women with GDM reported avoiding foods high in fat or sugar (25.3% versus 5.7%, p < 0.05) compared to women without GDM. A greater proportion of women with GDM compared with those without GDM received information from dietitians or nutritionists (27.0% versus 1.7%, p < 0.05) or obstetricians (12.6% versus 7.5%, p < 0.05). More women diagnosed before the antenatal interview received advice from dietitians or nutritionists compared with those diagnosed after (46.9% versus 6.0%, p < 0.05). Women with GDM appear to make positive changes to their diet in response to advice received from health care professionals.

The association between dietary patterns before and in early pregnancy and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM): Data from the Malaysian SECOST cohort

Generally, dietary patterns (DP)s have been linked to the risk of diabetes mellitus, however, only few studies examined the associations between DPs in early pregnancy and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). This study aims to determine the association between DPs before and during pregnancy and risk of GDM in Malaysian pregnant women. DPs were derived using principal component analysis of consumed 126 food and beverage items assessed using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire collecting data retrospectively for pre-pregnancy, but prospectively for the first and second trimester. Three different DPs were identified at each time point and labelled as DP 1–3 (pre-pregnancy), DP 4–6 (first trimester), and DP 7–9 (second trimester). About 10.6% (n = 48) of pregnant women were diagnosed with GDM in our cohort. Women with high adherence (HA) to DP 2 (adjusted OR: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.20–0.91) and DP 5 (adjusted OR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.11–0.68) showed a significantly reduced risk of GDM compared to women with low adherence (LA). Other DPs were not significantly associated with GDM risk. Compared to women with GDM, non-GDM women showed HA scores for all DPs throughout pregnancy. Overall, a relative low percentage of women with GDM was found in this cohort. The risk was lower in women with HA to a relatively unhealthy dietary pattern, i.e. DP 2 and DP 5. The lower body mass index (BMI) status and energy intake of women showing a HA to DP 2 in the first trimester may underlie the observed association with a lower GDM risk. Additionally, genetic variance might explain the less susceptibility to GDM despite HA to unhealthy DPs among non-GDM women.

A maternal "mixed, high sugar" dietary pattern is associated with fetal growth

This study examined associations between a maternal "mixed, high sugar" dietary pattern during pregnancy and ultrasound-determined fetal growth in 495 urban African women and explored whether these associations were independent of maternal baseline body mass index (BMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG). Linear mixed effects modelling (LMM) was used to test the associations between maternal mixed, high sugar dietary pattern score, baseline BMI (kg/m² ), and GWG (kg/week) and the following fetal growth outcomes: (a) biparietal diameter (cm), (b) head circumference (cm), (c) abdominal circumference (cm), and (d) femur length (cm). In the pooled LMM, a +1 standard deviation (SD) increase in the mixed, high sugar dietary pattern score was associated with higher biparietal diameter (0.03 cm/+1 SD; p = .007), head circumference (0.07 cm/+1 SD; p = .026), abdominal circumference (0.08 cm/+1 SD; p = .038), and femur length (0.02 cm/+1 SD; p = .015). Although these associations were independent of maternal BMI and GWG, higher baseline BMI was independently and positively associated with abdominal circumference (0.03 cm/+1 kg/m² ; p = .011) and femur length (0.01 cm/+1 kg/m² ; p = .007) and 1 kg/week greater GWG was associated with a 0.82 cm increase in abdominal circumference (p = .007). In urban African settings, where preconception maternal obesity prevalence is high and processed, high sugar diets are common, improving maternal dietary intake and BMI prior to conception should be prioritised for optimising pregnancy and birth outcomes as well as longer-term offspring health. In addition, dietary management strategies during pregnancy may be beneficial in facilitating healthy fetal growth.

Maternal diet and gestational diabetes mellitus development

Purpose: All possible measures should be taken to prevent glucose tolerance disorders and limit their consequences. The aim of this study was to show the relationship between maternal eating habits and the risk of developing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).Materials and methods: The nutrition of 55 pregnant women was evaluated using a three-day food record and food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and nutrition of 12 months before pregnancy was assessed only by means of the FFQ. The patients were divided into groups: H - with uncomplicated pregnancy (n = 42) and GDM - with gestational diabetes mellitus (n = 13), based on oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) results performed between 24 and 28 weeks.Results: Significant differences were found between groups H and GDM in terms of daily fat intake (32.1 versus 36.2%) and dietary reference values (standards) for total fat, monosaturated fatty acids (MUFA), and polysaturated fatty acids (PUFA). In the GDM group, the coverage of standards for total fat, staturated fatty acids (SFA) and MUFA exceeded the recommended values. Moreover, patients from this group consumed products typical for the "Western model of nutrition" more often, which may contribute to GDM.Conclusions: A "Western diet" and higher intake of energy from total fat and saturated fatty acid in the first half of pregnancy and before pregnancy may contribute to an increased risk of developing GDM.

Association of a plant-based dietary pattern in relation to gestational diabetes mellitus

AIM

The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), which has adverse effects on mothers and their offspring, is increasing worldwide. The role of a plant-based dietary pattern as a determinant of GDM is not well understood. Therefore, we examined the association between plant-based dietary patterns and the risk of GDM.

METHODS

We enrolled 460 pregnant women in this case-control study, of them 200 were cases and 260 were controls. Dietary intake of participants was evaluated using three 24-hour dietary records. Adherence to the plant-based dietary patterns was scored using three indices of the overall plant-based dietary index (PDI), healthy plant-based diet (hPDI) and unhealthy plant-based diet index (uPDI). The risk of GDM was compared across tertiles of PDI, hPDI and uPDI.

RESULTS

After multivariable adjustment, we demonstrated that the high PDI score was inversely associated with risk of GDM (OR = 0.47; 95% CI: 0.28-0.78, P = 0.004), but there was no significant association between hPDI (OR = 1.03; 95% CI: 0.64-1.65, P = 0.884) or uPDI (OR = 1.65; 95% CI: 0.98-2.78, P = 0.06) and GDM risk.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that following an overall plant-based diet was associated with lower risk of GDM. Future studies are warranted with longitudinal designs to confirm these findings.