Macronutrient composition and food groups associated with gestational weight gain: the GUSTO study

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Maternal Health
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Gestational weight gain (GWG) is crucial for maternal and infant health outcomes.
• Dietary patterns significantly influence GWG during pregnancy.
• Understanding specific nutrient and food group associations with GWG is essential for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between energy, macronutrient, and specific food intakes and GWG.
• To analyze dietary associations with inadequate, adequate, and excessive GWG in a pregnant cohort.
• To provide evidence-based dietary recommendations for optimal GWG.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from 960 pregnant women in the Growing Up in Singapore Towards healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) cohort.
• Assessed dietary intake via 24-hour recall and 3-day food diary at 26-28 weeks' gestation.
• Calculated GWG z-scores and defined inadequate/excessive GWG based on Institute of Medicine recommendations; employed substitution models and regression analyses.

Main Results:

• Higher energy intake was associated with increased GWG.
• Isocaloric diets with higher carbohydrate and lower fat intake correlated with higher GWG and increased likelihood of excessive GWG.
• Higher intake of plant-based protein foods was linked to a lower likelihood of both inadequate and excessive GWG.

Conclusions:

• Achieving optimal GWG may be facilitated by balancing carbohydrate and fat proportions in the diet.
• Increased consumption of plant-based protein foods appears beneficial for regulating GWG.
• Dietary modifications focusing on macronutrient balance and plant-based protein sources are recommended for healthy gestational weight management.