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Dietary Intake patterns in women with GDM and Non-GDM: A comparative study
Shabnam Nadeem1, Aisha Khatoon2, Shaista Rashid3
1Dr. Shabnam Nadeem, Associate Professor, Gynae Unit III, Karachi Medical & Dental College, Abbasi Saheed Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan.
Dietary patterns significantly impact gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) risk. High carbohydrate intake and low fruit/vegetable consumption are key risk factors for GDM in pregnant women.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Maternal Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a significant complication of pregnancy.
- Understanding dietary patterns associated with GDM is crucial for prevention and management.
- Previous research indicates a link between diet and GDM, but specific patterns require further investigation in diverse populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare dietary intake patterns between pregnant women with and without GDM.
- To identify specific dietary factors associated with an increased risk of developing GDM.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for dietary modifications to reduce GDM risk.
Main Methods:
- A comparative cross-sectional study involving 150 pregnant women (75 GDM, 75 Non-GDM) at 24-28 weeks gestation.
- Dietary intake assessed using three-day 24-hour recalls and a 70-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ).
- Nutrient intake (carbohydrate, protein, fat) calculated from reported food consumption by a trained nutritionist.
Main Results:
- Significant associations were observed between dietary intake patterns and GDM.
- Higher consumption of carbohydrate-rich diets was linked to an increased likelihood of GDM.
- Family history of diabetes and family dietary patterns also showed a correlation with GDM risk.
Conclusions:
- Dietary patterns play a critical role in the risk of developing GDM.
- Elevated intake of carbohydrate-rich foods and reduced consumption of fruits and vegetables are major contributors to GDM risk.
- While meal timing was not significantly associated, overall dietary composition is a key modifiable factor for GDM prevention.
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