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Serum chromium and gestational diabetes.
Scott E Woods1, Vivian Ghodsi, Amy Engel
1Bethesda Family Medicine Residency Program, Cincinnati, OH 45212, USA. Liverdoctor@yahoo.com
Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine : JABFM
|March 18, 2008
Summary
This study found no significant difference in chromium levels between pregnant women with gestational diabetes and those without. These findings suggest chromium levels are not a distinguishing factor for gestational diabetes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Nutritional Science
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affects a significant number of pregnancies.
- Chromium is an essential trace mineral involved in glucose metabolism.
- Previous research has explored potential links between mineral deficiencies and GDM, but findings are inconclusive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively investigate serum chromium levels in pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes compared to non-diabetic pregnant women.
- To determine if chromium levels could serve as a biomarker or therapeutic target for GDM.
Main Methods:
- A 2-year prospective gestational cohort study was conducted.
- Newly diagnosed pregnant patients were enrolled, with two blood samples collected.
- Serum chromium levels were measured at enrollment and during the second trimester.
Main Results:
- The study included 425 participants (396 non-diabetics, 29 diabetics).
- Patients with GDM were older and had a family history of GDM.
- No significant differences in serum chromium levels were observed between the GDM and non-GDM groups at either time point.
Conclusions:
- Serum chromium levels do not significantly differ between women with and without gestational diabetes.
- These findings indicate that chromium levels are unlikely to be a distinguishing factor in GDM.
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