A Comparative Analysis of Dietary Proximate Principles and its association with glucose tolerance in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Normal Pregnancies: Implications for Maternal Health

Abstract

Background: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a type of glucose intolerance seen during pregnancy. that poses significant risks to the mother and child.  In India, the prevalence ranges between 4–14%, with many women showing suboptimal dietary patterns like excessive carbohydrate, fat intake, inadequate protein and fibre consumption.  This study aimed to investigate the dietary differences in the macronutrient intake between normal pregnancy and GDM and its association with blood glucose levels

Materials and Methods: A case control study was conducted among 58 pregnant women with no GDM and 57 women with GDM. Dietary history was taken using a 24-hour recall chart and the quantity of macronutrients was estimated using the Indian Food Composition Table 2017. Daily intake of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and fibre was compared in both groups.

Results: The women with GDM consumed significantly higher calories (P=0.013) and high fats (P=0.002) compared to no GDM group. The protein intake was significantly low (P=0.005). However, high carbohydrate and low fibre intake was also observed, which was not significant. After adjustment for confounders, the OR for carbohydrates was 1.11[CI-1.02,1.22], and regression analysis revealed 10% for total energy intake (P=0.008), 9% for carbohydrates (P=0.04), and 10% for fats (P=0.02) for the variance in glucose, which was significant.

Conclusions: These findings indicate women with GDM have a dietary pattern that significantly deviates from recommended nutritional guidelines. Higher intake of fats with low fiber and protein speculates their roles in the GDM pathogenesis. Addressing these imbalances will help lower the incidence of GDM.