Gestational weight gain and neonatal adiposity in the Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome study-North American region

Pregnancy as a window of opportunity for dementia prevention: a narrative review

Dementia is a debilitating condition with a disproportionate impact on women. While sex differences in longevity contribute to the disparity, the role of the female sex as a biological variable in disease progression is not yet fully elucidated. Metabolic dysfunctions are drivers of dementia etiology, and cardiometabolic diseases are among the most influential modifiable risk factors. Pregnancy is a time of enhanced vulnerability for metabolic disorders. Many dementia risk factors, such as hypertension or blood glucose dysregulation, often emerge for the first time in pregnancy. While such cardiometabolic complications in pregnancy pose a risk to the health trajectory of a woman, increasing her odds of developing type 2 diabetes or chronic hypertension, it is not fully understood how this relates to her risk for dementia. Furthermore, structural and functional changes in the maternal brain have been reported during pregnancy suggesting it is a time of neuroplasticity for the mother. Therefore, pregnancy may be a window of opportunity to optimize metabolic health and support the maternal brain. Healthy dietary patterns are known to reduce the risk of cardiometabolic diseases and have been linked to dementia prevention, yet interventions targeting cognitive function in late life have largely been unsuccessful. Earlier interventions are needed to address the underlying metabolic dysfunctions and potentially reduce the risk of dementia, and pregnancy offers an ideal opportunity to intervene. This review discusses current evidence regarding maternal brain health and the potential window of opportunity in pregnancy to use diet to address neurological health disparities for women.

The association of maternal gestational weight gain with cardiometabolic risk factors in offspring: a systematic review and meta-analysis

CONTEXT

Gestational weight gain (GWG) is known to be a risk factor for offspring obesity, a precursor of cardiometabolic diseases. Accumulating studies have investigated the association of GWG with offspring cardiometabolic risk factors (CRFs), leading to inconsistent results.

OBJECTIVE

This study synthesized available data from cohort studies to examine the effects of GWG on offspring CRFs.

DATA SOURCE

Four electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase, were searched through May 2023.

DATA EXTRACTION

Cohort studies evaluating the association between GWG and CRFs (fat mass [FM], body fat percentage [BF%], waist circumference [WC], systolic blood pressure [SBP] and diastolic blood pressure, high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C] and low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride [TG], total cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, and fasting insulin levels) were included. Regression coefficients, means or mean differences with 95% confidence intervals [CIs], or standard deviations were extracted.

DATA ANALYSIS

Thirty-three cohort studies were included in the meta-analysis. Higher GWG (per increase of 1 kg) was associated with greater offspring FM (0.041 kg; 95% CI, 0.016 to 0.067), BF% (0.145%; 95% CI, 0.116 to 0.174), WC (0.154 cm; 95% CI, 0.036 to 0.272), SBP (0.040 mmHg; 95% CI, 0.010 to 0.070), and TG (0.004 mmol/L; 95% CI, 0.001 to 0.007), and with lower HDL-C (-0.002 mmol/L; 95% CI, -0.004 to 0.000). Consistently, excessive GWG was associated with higher offspring FM, BF%, WC, and insulin, and inadequate GWG was associated with lower BF%, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, and TG, compared with adequate GWG. Most associations went non-significant or attenuated with adjustment for offspring body mass index or FM.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher maternal GWG is associated with increased offspring adiposity, SBP, TG, and insulin and decreased HDL-C in offspring, warranting a need to control GWG and to screen for cardiometabolic abnormalities of offspring born to mothers with excessive GWG.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42023412098.

Recent Insights and Recommendations for Preventing Excessive Gestational Weight Gain

Recommendations for weight gain during pregnancy are based on pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI). Pregnancy is a risk factor for excessive weight gain and many endocrine problems, making it difficult to return to pre-pregnancy weight and increasing the risk of postpartum obesity and, consequently, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Both excessive gestational weight gain (EGWG) and obesity are associated with an increased risk of gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, cesarean section, shoulder dystocia, and neonatal macrosomia. In the long term, EGWG is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, particularly from diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and some cancers. This study aims to present recommendations from various societies regarding weight gain during pregnancy, dietary guidance, and physical activity. In addition, we discuss the pathophysiology of this complication and the differential diagnosis in pregnant women with EGWG. According to our research, inadequate nutrition might contribute more significantly to the development of EGWG than insufficient physical activity levels in pregnant women. Telehealth systems seem to be a promising direction for future EGWG prevention by motivating women to exercise. Although the importance of adequate pre-pregnancy weight and weight gain during pregnancy is well known, an increasing number of women gain excessive weight during pregnancy.

Maternal age-specific risks for adverse birth weights according to gestational weight gain: a prospective cohort in Chinese women older than 30

BACKGROUND

It is unclear whether the effects of abnormal gestational weight gain (GWG) on birth outcomes are differently in women with different maternal ages. This study aimed to investigate maternal age-specific association between GWG and adverse birth weights in Chinese women older than 30.

METHODS

19,854 mother-child dyads were selected from a prospective cohort study in Southwest China between 2019 and 2022. Logistic regression model was used to assess the association between GWG, which defined by the 2009 Institute of Medicine guidelines, and adverse birth weights including large- and small-for-gestational-age (LGA and SGA), stratified by maternal age (31-34 years and ≥ 35 years).

RESULTS

In both maternal age groups, excessive and insufficient GWG were associated with increased odds of LGA and SGA, respectively. After women were categorized by pre-pregnancy body mass index, the associations remained significant in women aged 31-34 years, whereas for women aged ≥ 35 years, the association between excessive GWG and the risk of LGA was only significant in normal weight and overweight/obese women, and the significant effect of insufficient GWG on the risk of SGA was only observed in underweight and overweight/obese women. Moreover, among overweight/obese women, the magnitude of the association between insufficient GWG and the risk of SGA was greater in those aged ≥ 35 years (31-34 years: OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.19-3.55; ≥35 years: OR 2.65, 95% CI 1.47-4.74), while the impact of excessive GWG on the risk of LGA was more pronounced in those aged 31-34 years (31-34 years: OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.68-2.88; ≥35 years: OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.30-2.25).

CONCLUSIONS

The stronger associations between abnormal GWG and adverse birth weights were mainly observed in women aged 31-34 years, and more attention should be paid to this age group.

Growth and adiposity in newborns study (GAINS): The influence of prenatal DHA supplementation protocol

BACKGROUND

Obesity and central fat mass (FM) accrual drive disease development and are related to greater morbidity and mortality. Excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) increases fetal fat accretion resulting in greater offspring FM across the lifespan. Studies associate greater maternal docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels with lower offspring FM and lower visceral adipose tissue during childhood, however, most U.S. pregnant women do not consume an adequate amount of DHA. We will determine if prenatal DHA supplementation is protective for body composition changes during infancy and toddlerhood in offspring exposed to excessive GWG.

METHODS AND DESIGN

Infants born to women who participated in the Assessment of DHA on Reducing Early Preterm Birth randomized controlled trial (ADORE; NCT02626299) will be invited to participate. Women were randomized to either a high 1000 mg or low 200 mg daily prenatal DHA supplement starting in the first trimester of pregnancy. Offspring body composition and adipose tissue distribution will be measured at 2 weeks, 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Maternal GWG will be categorized as excessive or not excessive based on clinical guidelines.

DISCUSSION

Effective strategies to prevent obesity development are lacking. Exposures during the prenatal period are important in the establishment of the offspring phenotype. However, it is largely unknown which exposures can be successfully targeted to have a meaningful impact. This study will determine if prenatal DHA supplementation modifies the relationship between maternal weight gain and offspring FM and FM distribution at 24 months of age.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The University of Kansas Medical Center Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved the study protocol (STUDY00140895). The results of the trial will be disseminated at conferences and in peer reviewed publications.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT03310983.

Prenatal interventions and the development of childhood obesity

BACKGROUND

Excess maternal adiposity during pregnancy has lasting effects on child outcomes including increased risk of overweight/obesity, which drives disease development. Prenatal interventions are a potential avenue to curb childhood obesity rates, but little is known on their long-term influence on offspring adiposity.

OBJECTIVE

Review the evidence for lasting effects of prenatal interventions on child adiposity.

METHODS

Three databases were searched for follow-up studies of completed prenatal RCTs that involved a diet, exercise, or combined (diet and exercise) intervention, and assessed offspring adiposity-related outcomes beyond birth.

RESULTS

A total of 18 follow-up studies describing 4277 offspring were included. Anthropometrics were collected in all studies while body composition was measured in 15 of the studies. Diet or exercise interventions did not have a consistent significant effect on child adiposity. Three combined interventions resulted in lower levels of child adiposity at 3, 6, and 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

No strong association was found between prenatal diet, exercise, or combined interventions and child adiposity. Data are limited due to 63.6% overall retention rate for the follow-up studies and heterogeneity of intervention approach and child adiposity measures. Findings suggest combined interventions initiated early in pregnancy may decrease offspring adiposity in the first year of life.

Umbilical cord blood concentration of connecting peptide (C-peptide) and pregnancy outcomes

Background

C-peptide offers potential as a marker to indicate childhood metabolic outcomes. Measuring C-peptide concentration might have better future utility in the risk stratification of neonates born to overweight or diabetic mothers. Prior research has tried to bring this matter into the light; however, the clinical significance of these associations is still far from reach. Here we sought to investigate the associations between fetomaternal metabolic variables and umbilical cord blood C-peptide concentration.

Methods

For the present study, 858 pregnant women were randomly selected from among a sub-group of 35,430 Iranian pregnant women who participated in a randomized community non-inferiority trial of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) screening. Their umbilical cord (UC) blood C-peptide concentrations were measured, and the pregnancy variables of macrosomia/large for gestational age (LGA) and primary cesarean section (CS) delivery were assessed. The variation of C-peptide concentrations among GDM and macrosomia status was plotted. Due to the skewed distribution of C-peptide concentration in the sample, median regression analysis was used to identify potential factors related to UC C-peptide concentration.

Results

In the univariate model, positive GDM status was associated with a 0.3 (95% CI: 0.06 − 0.54, p = 0.01) increase in the median coefficient of UC blood C-peptide concentration. Moreover, one unit (kg) increase in the birth weight was associated with a 0.25 (95% CI: 0.03 − 0.47, p = 0.03) increase in the median coefficient of UC blood C-peptide concentration. In the multivariate model, after adjusting for maternal age, maternal BMI, and macrosomia status, the positive status of GDM and macrosomia were significantly associated with an increase in the median coefficient of UC blood C-peptide concentration (Coef.= 0.27, 95% CI: 0.13 − 0.42, p < 0.001; and Coef.= 0.34, 95% CI: 0.06 − 0.63, p = 0.02, respectively).

Conclusion

UC blood concentration of C-peptide is significantly associated with the incidence of maternal GDM and neonatal macrosomia. Using stratification for maternal BMI and gestational weight gain (GWG) and investigating molecular markers like Leptin and IGF-1 in the future might lay the ground to better understand the link between metabolic disturbances of pregnancy and UC blood C-peptide concentration.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-022-05081-4.

Comparing IADPSG and NICE Diagnostic Criteria for GDM in Predicting Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To compare the performance of diagnostic criteria for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) proposed by the International Association of the Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) with those endorsed by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in predicting adverse pregnancy outcomes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a secondary data analysis of the Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes (HAPO) study participants in five study centers. Logistic regression analyses were performed, and Akaike information criterion were applied for the comparison of different statistical prediction models. We further analyzed the performance by four racial/ethnic subgroups, namely, Whites, Hispanics, Asians, and Blacks.

RESULTS

Among all, IADPSG criteria diagnosed 267 (4.1%) more women with GDM, but predicted primary caesarean section (CS) and large for gestational age (LGA) and neonatal adiposity better than did NICE criteria after adjustment for potential confounders. Among Whites, IADPSG criteria diagnosed 65 (2.5%) more subjects with GDM and predicted LGA and neonatal adiposity better, but predicted hypertensive disorders, primary CS and clinical neonatal hypoglycemia worse. Among Hispanics, the IADPSG criteria diagnosed 203 (12.1%) more with GDM but performed better in predicting hypertensive disorders, LGA, neonatal adiposity, and hyperinsulinemia. Among Asians, the IADPSG criteria diagnosed 34 (2.0%) fewer subjects with GDM but predicted hypertensive disorders better in the unadjusted model. In Blacks, IADPSG criteria diagnosed 34 (10.5%) more women with GDM.

CONCLUSIONS

IADPSG criteria appear to be more favorable than NICE for identification of adverse pregnancy outcomes among Hispanic and Asian women, while they are comparable to NICE among White women.

Interactive Affection of Pre-Pregnancy Overweight or Obesity, Excessive Gestational Weight Gain and Glucose Tolerance Test Characteristics on Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes Among Women With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Purpose

To examine the combined effect of pre-pregnancy overweight or obesity, excessive gestational weight gain, and glucose tolerance status on the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes among women with gestational diabetes mellitus.

Methods

A observational study including 5529 gestational diabetes mellitus patients was performed. Logistic regression were used to assess the independent and multiplicative interactions of overweight or obese, excessive gestational weight gain, abnormal items of oral glucose tolerance test and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Additive interactions were calculated using an Excel sheet developed by Anderson to calculate relative excess risk.

Results

Overall 1076(19.46%) study subject were overweight or obese and 1858(33.60%) women gained weight above recommended. Based on IADPSG criteria, more than one-third women with two, or three abnormal glucose values. Preconception overweight or obesity, above recommended gestational weight gain, and two or more abnormal items of oral glucose tolerance test parameters significantly increased the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, separately. After accounting for confounders, each two of overweight or obesity, excessive gestational weight gain, two or more abnormal items of OGTT parameters, the pairwise interactions on adverse pregnancy outcomes appear to be multiplicative. Coexistence of preconception overweight or obesity, above recommended gestational weight gain and two or more abnormal items of oral glucose tolerance test parameters increased the highest risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes. No additive interaction was found.

Conclusions

Pre-pregnancy overweight or obesity, excessive gestational weight gain, two or more abnormal items of OGTT parameters contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes independently among women with gestational diabetes mellitus. Additionally, the combined effect between these three factors and adverse pregnancy outcomes appear to be multiplicative. Interventions focus on maternal overweight or obesity and gestational weight gain should be offered to improve pregnancy outcomes.

Gestational weight change and childhood body composition trajectories from pregnancy to early adolescence

OBJECTIVE

A mother-child dyad trajectory model of weight and body composition spanning from conception to adolescence was developed to understand how early life exposures shape childhood body composition.

METHODS

African American (49.3%) and Dominican (50.7%) pregnant mothers (n = 337) were enrolled during pregnancy, and their children (47.5% female) were followed from ages 5 to 14. Gestational weight gain (GWG) was abstracted from medical records. Child weight, height, percentage body fat, and waist circumference were measured. GWG and child body composition trajectories were jointly modeled with a flexible latent class model with a class membership component that included prepregnancy BMI.

RESULTS

Four prenatal and child body composition trajectory patterns were identified, and sex-specific patterns were observed for the joint GWG-postnatal body composition trajectories with more distinct patterns among girls but not boys. Girls of mothers with high GWG across gestation had the highest BMI z score, waist circumference, and percentage body fat trajectories from ages 5 to 14; however, boys in this high GWG group did not show similar growth patterns.

CONCLUSIONS

Jointly modeled prenatal weight and child body composition trajectories showed sex-specific patterns. Growth patterns from childhood though early adolescence appeared to be more profoundly affected by higher GWG patterns in females, suggesting sex differences in developmental programming.

Impact of pre-pregnancy body mass index and gestational weight gain on the risk of maternal and infant pregnancy complications in Korean women

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Healthy weight maintenance before and during pregnancy has a significant effect on pregnancy outcomes; however, there are no specific guidelines for gestational weight gain in pregnant Korean women. Therefore, we investigated the impact of pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and gestational weight gain on the risk of maternal and infant pregnancy complications in pregnant Korean women.

METHODS

Study participants comprised 3454 singleton pregnant women from the Korean Pregnancy Outcome Study who had baseline examination and pregnancy outcome data. Maternal pre-pregnancy BMI and gestational weight gain were categorized according to the Asia-pacific regional guidelines and the Institute of Medicine recommendations, respectively. The primary outcome was any adverse outcomes, defined as the presence of one or more of the following: hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, gestational diabetes mellitus, peripartum depressive symptom, cesarean delivery, delivery complications, preterm birth, small or large weight infant, neonatal intensive care unit admission, or a congenital anomaly. Multiple logistic regression models were applied to examine the independent and combined impact of pre-pregnancy BMI and gestational weight gain on the risk of maternal and infant outcomes.

RESULTS

Obesity before pregnancy significantly increased the risk of perinatal adverse outcomes by more than 2.5 times [odds ratio (OR): 2.512, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.817-3.473]. Compared to that in women with appropriate gestational weight gain, women with excessive weight gain had a 36.4% incremental increase in the risk of any adverse outcomes [OR: 1.364, 95% CI: 1.115-1.670]. Moreover, women who were overweight or obese before pregnancy and had excessive gestational weight gain had a three-fold increase in the risk of adverse outcomes [OR: 3.460, 95% CI: 2.210-5.417].

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the need for appropriate weight recommendations before and during pregnancy to prevent perinatal complications in Korean women of childbearing age.

The associations between maternal BMI and gestational weight gain and health outcomes in offspring at age 1 and 7 years

In secondary analyses of a randomised controlled trial of exercise during pregnancy, we examined associations between mid-pregnancy maternal body mass index (BMI) and excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) with offspring health. Follow-up data were available on 57 mother–child pairs at 1-year and 52 pairs at 7-year follow-ups. Clinical assessments included body composition and fasting blood tests. At age 1 year, increased maternal BMI in mid-gestation was associated with greater weight standard deviation scores (SDS) in the offspring (p = 0.035), with no observed associations for excessive GWG. At age 7 years, greater maternal BMI was associated with increased weight SDS (p < 0.001), BMI SDS (p = 0.005), and total body fat percentage (p = 0.037) in their children. Irrespective of maternal BMI, children born to mothers with excessive GWG had greater abdominal adiposity (p = 0.043) and less favourable lipid profile (lower HDL-C and higher triglycerides). At 7 years, maternal BMI and excessive GWG had compounded adverse associations with offspring adiposity. Compared to offspring of mothers with overweight/obesity plus excessive GWG, children of normal-weight mothers with adequate and excessive GWG were 0.97 and 0.64 SDS lighter (p = 0.002 and p = 0.014, respectively), and 0.98 and 0.63 SDS leaner (p = 0.001 and p = 0.014, respectively). Both greater maternal BMI in mid-pregnancy and excessive GWG were independently associated with increased adiposity in offspring at 7 years.

Optimal gestational weight gain for Chinese women - analysis from a longitudinal cohort with childhood follow-up

BACKGROUND

Maternal gestational weight gain (GWG) influences not only on pregnancy outcome but also impacts on mothers' and children's long-term health. However, there is no consensus on recommendations of optimal GWG in Asians or the Chinese population.

METHODS

We performed a secondary analysis of the birth outcome of Chinese women who had joined the "Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome" study in Hong Kong and their children's cardiometabolic risk at 7-year of age. Optimal ranges of GWG were derived from models based on the probabilities of small for gestational age and large for gestational age (model 1), lean and fat infants (model 2) and the integration of model 1 and 2 (model 3), and were compared with that recommended by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) on children's cardiometabolic risk.

FINDINGS

GWG range derived from model 2 is associated with 8 cardiometabolic risk factors, while that from models 1 and 3 are associated with 1 and 7 of them respectively. Mothers whose GWG lie within the recommended range increases from 40.8% according to the IOM recommendation to 50.2% according to that derived from model 2.

INTERPRETATION

Optimal GWG derived from model 2 (i.e. 14.0-18.5 kg, 9.0-16.5 kg and 5.0-11.0 kg for underweight, normal weight and overweight Chinese women, respectively) appeared to be associated with the lowest cardiometabolic risk in the offspring.

FUNDING

General Research Fund of the Research Grants Council of the Hong Kong SAR, China (grants CUHK 473408 and, in part, CUHK 471713).

Prediction of large-for-gestational age infants in relation to hyperglycemia in pregnancy - A comparison of statistical models

AIMS

Using data from a large multi-centre cohort, we aimed to create a risk prediction model for large-for-gestational age (LGA) infants, using both logistic regression and naïve Bayes approaches, and compare the utility of these two approaches.

METHODS

We have compared the two techniques underpinning machine learning: logistic regression (LR) and naïve Bayes (NB) in terms of their ability to predict large-for-gestational age (LGA) infants. Using data from five centres involved in the Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome (HAPO) study, we developed LR and NB models and compared the predictive ability and stability between the models. Models were developed combining the risks of hyperglycaemia (assessed in three forms: IADPSG GDM yes/no, GDM subtype, OGTT z-score quintiles), demographic and clinical variables as potential predictors.

RESULTS

The two approaches resulted in similar estimates of LGA risk (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.955, 95% CI 0.952, 0.958) however the AUROC for the LR model was significantly higher (0.698 vs 0.682; p < 0.001). When comparing the three LR models, use of individual OGTT z-score quintiles resulted in statistically higher AUROCs than the other two models.

CONCLUSIONS

Logistic regression can be used with confidence to assess the relationship between clinical and biochemical variables and outcome.

Maternal and Cord Blood Metabolite Associations with Gestational Weight Gain and Pregnancy Health Outcomes

Pre-pregnancy obesity and excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) are risk factors for future maternal and childhood obesity. Maternal obesity is potentially communicated to the fetus in part by the metabolome, altering the child's metabolic program in early development. Fasting maternal blood samples from 37 singleton pregnancies at 25-28 weeks of gestation were obtained from mothers with pre-pregnancy body mass indexes (BMIs) between 18 and 40 kg/m². Various health measures including GWG, diet, and physical activity were also assessed. At term (37-42 weeks), a venous umbilical cord sample was obtained. Serum metabolomic profiles were measured using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy as well as a gut and metabolic hormone panel. Maternal and cord serum metabolites were tested for associations with pre-pregnancy BMI, GWG, health outcomes, and gut and metabolic hormones. While cord blood metabolites showed no significant correlation to maternal obesity status or other measured health outcomes, maternal serum metabolites showed distinct profiles for lean, overweight, and obese women. Additionally, four serum metabolites, namely, glutamate, lysine, pyruvate, and valine, allowed prediction of excessive GWG when pre-pregnancy BMI was controlled. Metabolic biomarkers predictive of GWG are reported and, if validated, could aid in the guidance of prenatal weight management plans as the majority of pregnancy weight gain occurs in the third trimester.

Do variations in insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion in pregnancy predict differences in obstetric and neonatal outcomes?

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is generally defined based on glycaemia during an OGTT, but aetiologically includes women with defects in insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity or a combination of both. In this observational study, we aimed to determine if underlying pathophysiological defects evaluated as continuous variables predict the risk of important obstetric and neonatal outcomes better than the previously used dichotomised or categorical approaches.

METHODS

Using data from blinded OGTTs at mean gestational week 28 from five Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome study centres, we estimated insulin secretion (Stumvoll first phase) and sensitivity (Matsuda index) and their product (oral disposition index [DI]) in 6337 untreated women (1090 [17.2%] with GDM as defined by the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups). Rather than dichotomising these variables (i.e. GDM yes/no) or subtyping by insulin impairment, we related insulin secretion and sensitivity as continuous variables, along with other maternal characteristics, to obstetric and neonatal outcomes using multiple regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

RESULTS

Stratifying by GDM subtype offered superior prediction to GDM yes/no only for neonatal hyperinsulinaemia and pregnancy-related hypertension. Including the DI and the Matsuda score significantly increased the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and improved prediction for multiple outcomes (large for gestational age [AUROC 0.632], neonatal adiposity [AUROC 0.630], pregnancy-related hypertension [AUROC 0.669] and neonatal hyperinsulinaemia [AUROC 0.688]). Neonatal hypoglycaemia was poorly predicted by all models. Combining the DI and the Matsuda score with maternal characteristics substantially improved the predictive power of the model for large for gestational age, neonatal adiposity and pregnancy-related hypertension.

CONCLUSION/INTERPRETATION

Continuous measurement of insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity combined with basic clinical variables appeared to be superior to GDM (yes/no) or subtyping by insulin secretion and/or sensitivity impairment in predicting obstetric and neonatal outcomes in a multi-ethnic cohort. Graphical abstract.

Relative Contribution of Gestational Weight Gain, Gestational Diabetes, and Maternal Obesity to Neonatal Fat Mass

Maternal nutritional and metabolic status influence fetal growth. This study investigated the contribution of gestational weight gain (GWG), gestational diabetes (GDM), and maternal obesity to birthweight and newborn body fat. It is a secondary analysis of a prospective study including 204 women with a pregestational body mass index (BMI) of 18.5-24.9 kg/m² and 219 women with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m². GDM was screened in the second and third trimester and was treated by dietary intervention, and insulin if required. Maternal obesity had the greatest effect on skinfolds (+1.4 mm) and cord leptin (+3.5 ng/mL), but no effect on birthweight. GWG was associated with increased birthweight and skinfolds thickness, independently from GDM and maternal obesity. There was an interaction between third trimester weight gain and GDM on birthweight and cord leptin, but not with maternal obesity. On average, +1 kg in third trimester was associated with +13 g in birthweight and with +0.64 ng/mL in cord leptin, and a further 32 g and 0.89 ng/mL increase in diabetic mothers, respectively. Maternal obesity is the main contributor to neonatal body fat. There is an independent association between third trimester weight gain, birthweight, and neonatal body fat, enhanced by GDM despite intensive treatment.

Monitoring gestational weight gain and prepregnancy BMI using the 2009 IOM guidelines in the global population: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have reported a high prevalence of excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) in women with prepregnancy BMI classified as overweight and obese. However, the joint evidence regarding GWG and prepregnancy BMI in the worldwide population has not been synthesized. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate global and regional mean GWG and the prevalence of GWG above, within and below 2009 Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines. Second, we aimed to estimate global and regional prepregnancy BMI and the prevalence of BMI categories according to World Health Organization (WHO) classification.

METHODS

We searched Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science to identify observational studies until 9 May 2018. We included studies published from 2009 that used 2009 IOM guidelines, reporting data from women in general population with singleton pregnancies. The 2009 IOM categories for GWG and the WHO categories for prepregnancy BMI were used. DerSimonian and Laird random effects methods were used to estimate the pooled and their respective 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) of the mean and by category rates of GWG and prepregnancy BMI, calculated by global and regions.

RESULTS

Sixty-three published studies from 29 countries with a total sample size of 1,416,915 women were included. The global prevalence of GWG above and below the 2009 IOM guidelines, was 27.8% (95% CI; 26.5, 29.1) and 39.4% (95% CI; 37.1, 41.7), respectively. Furthermore, meta-regression analyses showed that the mean GWG and the prevalence of GWG above guidelines have increased. The global prevalence of overweight and obesity, was 23.0% (95% CI; 22.3, 23.7) and 16.3% (95% CI; 15.4, 17.4), respectively. The highest mean GWG and prepregnancy BMI were in North America and the lowest were in Asia.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering the high prevalence of GWG above the 2009 IOM guidelines and women with overweight/obesity and their continuously increasing trend in most regions, clinicians should recommend lifestyle interventions to improve women's weight during reproductive age. Due to regional variability, these interventions should be adapted to each cultural context.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Prospectively registered with PROSPERO ( CRD42018093562 ).

Anthropometry-based prediction of body fat in infants from birth to 6 months: the Baby-bod study

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Prediction equations generated from anthropometric measures are frequently used to quantify paediatric body composition. We tested the agreeability and predictive power of select (Lingwood and Aris) fat mass prediction equations against body fat measured via ADP; and generated and evaluated new anthropometry-based models for use in the first 6 months of life.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Data were obtained from 278 white European Australian infants at birth, 3 and 6 months. Prediction models (i.e. Baby-bod models) were generated for each time point via stepwise linear regression and compared for agreeability with ADP via limits of agreement, mean difference and total bias in Bland-Altman analyses. Predictive power of all equations in comparison to ADP were assessed using linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

Overall, there was poor agreeability between percent body fat predicted via published equations and ADP. Proportional bias was detected for both methods (i.e. published equations and Baby-bod models) of body fat prediction. At birth, both Lingwood and BB0 equations overestimated percent body fat at the lower end of the FM spectrum. This trend was repeated at 3 months with all equations displaying a propensity to overestimate body fat at lower FM levels and underestimate at higher FM levels.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that anthropometry, although less costly and relatively easier to implement, does not always produce comparable results with objective measures such as ADP. Given the importance of the accurate assessment of physical growth, including body composition in early life, it is timely to recommend the increased utilisation of techniques such as ADP.

The effect of high dietary fiber intake on gestational weight gain, fat accrual, and postpartum weight retention: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Interventions to prevent excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) have had limited success This pilot study examined the effectiveness of a single goal (SG) high dietary fiber intervention to prevent excessive GWG.

METHODS

Twelve weekly lessons focused on consuming a high fiber diet (≥30 g/day). Snacks containing 10-12 g of dietary fiber were given for the first 6 weeks only. Body composition was measured at baseline and at the end of the intervention. At one-year postpartum, body weight retention and dietary practices were assessed. A p-value is reported for the primary analysis only. For all other comparisons, Cohen's d is reported to indicate effect size.

RESULTS

The SG group increased fiber intake during the study (32 g/day at 6 weeks, 27 g/day at 12 weeks), whereas the UC group did not (~ 17 g/day). No differences were found for the proportion of women classified as excessive gainers (p = 0.13). During the intervention, the SG group gained less body weight (- 4.1 kg) and less fat mass (- 2.8 kg) (d = 1.3). At 1 year postpartum, the SG group retained less weight (0.35 vs. 4.4 kg, respectively, d = 1.8), and reported trying to currently eat high fiber foods.

CONCLUSION

The SG intervention resulted in less weight gain, fat accrual, and weight retention at 1 year postpartum. A residual intervention effect was detected postpartum with the participants reporting continued efforts to consume a high fiber diet.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT03984630; Trial registered June 13, 2019 (retrospectively registered).

Parental adiposity differentially associates with newborn body composition

BACKGROUND

Maternal obesity increases offspring's obesity risk. However, studies have not often considered maternal metabolic and exercise patterns as well as paternal adiposity as potential covariates.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the relationship between parental and newborn adiposity.

METHODS

Participants were mother-child pairs (n = 209) and mother-father-offspring triads (n = 136). Parental (during gestation) and offspring (2 weeks old) percent fat mass (FM) were obtained using air displacement plethysmography. Maternal race, age, resting energy expenditure (indirect calorimetry), physical activity (accelerometry), gestational weight gain (GWG), gestational age (GA), delivery mode, infant's sex and infant feeding method were incorporated in multiple linear regression analyses. The association between parental FM and offspring insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) was assessed at age 2 years.

RESULTS

Maternal adiposity was positively-associated with male (β = 0.11, P = .015) and female (β = 0.13, P = .008) infant FM, whereas paternal adiposity was negatively-associated with male newborn adiposity (β = -0.09, P = .014). Breastfeeding, female sex, GA and GWG positively associated with newborn adiposity. Vaginal and C-section delivery methods associated with greater adiposity than vaginal induced delivery method. Plasma IGF-1 of 2-year-old boys and girls positively associated with their respective fathers' and mothers' FM.

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal and paternal adiposity differentially associate with newborn adiposity. The mechanisms of this finding remain to be determined.

Maternal Adipose Tissue Expansion, A Missing Link in the Prediction of Birth Weight Centile

CONTEXT

Maternal body mass index (BMI) is associated with increased birth weight but does not explain all the variance in fetal adiposity.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the contribution of maternal body fat distribution to offspring birth weight and adiposity.

DESIGN

Longitudinal study throughout gestation and at delivery.

SETTING

Women recruited at 12 weeks of gestation and followed up at 26 and 36 weeks. Cord blood was collected at delivery.

PATIENTS

Pregnant women (n = 45) with BMI 18.0 to 46.3 kg/m2 and healthy pregnancy outcome.

METHODS

Maternal first trimester abdominal subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue thickness (SAT and VAT) was assessed by ultrasound.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Maternal body fat distribution, maternal and cord plasma glucose and lipid concentrations, placental weight, birth weight, and fetal adiposity assessed by cord blood leptin.

RESULTS

VAT was the only anthropometric measure independently associated with birth weight centile (r2 adjusted 15.8%, P = .002). BMI was associated with trimester 2 and trimesters 1 through 3 area under the curve (AUC) glucose and insulin resistance (Homeostatic Model Assessment). SAT alone predicted trimester 2 lipoprotein lipase (LPL) mass (a marker of adipocyte insulin sensitivity) (11.3%, P = .017). VAT was associated with fetal triglyceride (9.3%, P = .047). Placental weight was the only independent predictor of fetal adiposity (48%, P < .001). Maternal trimester 2 and AUC LPL were inversely associated with fetal adiposity (r = -0.69, P = .001 and r = -0.58, P = .006, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal VAT provides additional information to BMI for prediction of birth weight. VAT may be a marker of reduced SAT expansion and increased availability of maternal fatty acids for placental transport.

Maternal body mass index, excess gestational weight gain, and diabetes are positively associated with neonatal adiposity in the Pregnancy and Neonatal Diabetes Outcomes in Remote Australia (PANDORA) study

BACKGROUND

In-utero exposures likely influence the onset and severity of obesity in youth. With increasing rates of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and maternal adiposity in pregnancy globally, it is important to assess the impact of these factors on neonatal adipose measures.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the contribution of maternal ethnicity, body mass index (BMI), gestational weight gain, and hyperglycaemia to neonatal adiposity.

METHODS

Pregnancy and Neonatal Diabetes Outcomes in Remote Australia (PANDORA) is a longitudinal cohort study of Australian mother and neonate pairs. In this analysis, Indigenous (n = 519) and Europid (n = 358) women were included, of whom 644 had hyperglycaemia (type 2 diabetes [T2DM], diabetes in pregnancy [DIP], or gestational diabetes [GDM]). Associations between maternal ethnicity, hyperglycaemia, BMI and gestational weight gain, and the neonatal outcomes of length, head circumference, sum of skinfolds, total body fat, and percentage body fat were examined. Models were adjusted for maternal age, smoking status, parity, education, neonatal gender, and gestational age.

RESULTS

Among those with hyperglycaemia in pregnancy, Indigenous women had a higher proportion of T2DM and DIP (36%, 13%) compared with Europid women (4%, 3%). In multivariate analysis, maternal T2DM (compared with no hyperglycaemia), BMI during pregnancy, and excess compared with appropriate gestational weight gain, were significantly associated with greater neonatal measures. DIP was associated with greater sum of skinfolds, total body fat, and percentage body fat. Indigenous ethnicity was associated with greater sum of skinfolds.

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal BMI, excess gestational weight gain, and hyperglycaemia operated as independent factors influencing neonatal adiposity. Interventions addressing these factors are needed to reduce neonatal adiposity.

The impact of maternal gestational weight gain on cardiometabolic risk factors in children

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Accumulating evidence suggests an impact of gestational weight gain (GWG) on pregnancy outcomes; however, data on cardiometabolic risk factors later in life have not been comprehensively studied. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between GWG and cardiometabolic risk in offspring aged 7 years.

METHODS

We included a total of 905 mother-child pairs who enrolled in the follow-up visit of the multicentre Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome study, at the Hong Kong Centre. Women were classified as having gained weight below, within or exceeding the 2009 Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines. A standardised GWG according to pre-pregnancy BMI categories was calculated to explore for any quadratic relationship.

RESULTS

Independent of pre-pregnancy BMI, gestational hyperglycaemia and other confounders, women who gained more weight than the IOM recommendations had offspring with a larger body size and increased odds of adiposity, hypertension and insulin resistance (range of p values of all the traits: 4.6 × 10-9 < p < 0.0390) than women who were within the recommended range of weight gain during pregnancy. Meanwhile, women who gained less weight than outlined in the recommendations had offspring with increased risks of hypertension and insulin resistance, compared with those who gained weight within the recommended range (7.9 × 10-3 < p < 0.0477). Quadratic relationships for diastolic blood pressure, AUC for insulin, pancreatic beta cell function and insulin sensitivity index were confirmed in the analysis of standardised GWG (1.4 × 10-3 < pquadratic < 0.0282). Further adjustment for current BMI noticeably attenuated the observed associations.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Both excessive and inadequate GWG have independent and significant impacts on childhood adiposity, hypertension and insulin resistance. Our findings support the notion that adverse intrauterine exposures are associated with persistent cardiometabolic risk in the offspring.

Pre-pregnancy obesity, gestational diabetes or gestational weight gain: Which is the strongest predictor of pregnancy outcomes?

AIMS

Both obesity and gestational diabetes (GDM) are risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes. The aim of our study is to ascertain the independent role of prepregnancy BMI (pp-BMI), gestational weight gain (GWG), and GDM on pregnancy outcomes.

METHODS

We analyzed data of 1198 pregnant women, who underwent selective screening for GDM. Data on pregnancy outcomes was collected from hospital discharge records.

RESULTS

Cesarean section (CS) was comparable in GDM and NGT women. Prevalence of fetal macrosomia was 5.9%, with no difference between GDM and normal glucose tolerance (NGT), neonatal hyperbilirubinemia were more frequent in newborns of GDM women (63.3% vs. 52.2%; p < 0.01). Offspring of women with excessive GWG weighed more than those of women with regular GWG (3405 ± 510 g vs. 3287 ± 524 g; p < 0.01). On a logistic regression analysis, GWG was an independent risk factor for macrosomia (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.02-1.13; p < 0.01) and delivery at a gestational age <37 weeks (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.16-0.53; p < 0.0001). GDM and pp-BMI were not independent risk factors for adverse outcomes in this cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

GWG rather than GDM is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. These findings call for an early education and implementation of a healthy lifestyle in women planning a pregnancy.

Association Between Gestational Weight Gain and Perinatal Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between gestational weight gain and maternal and neonatal outcomes in a large, geographically diverse cohort.

METHODS

Trained chart abstractors at 25 hospitals obtained maternal and neonatal data for all deliveries on randomly selected days over 3 years (2008-2011). Gestational weight gain was derived using weight at delivery minus prepregnancy or first-trimester weight and categorized as below, within, or above the Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines in this retrospective cohort study. Maternal (primary or repeat cesarean delivery, third- or fourth-degree lacerations, severe postpartum hemorrhage, hypertensive disease of pregnancy) and neonatal (preterm birth, shoulder dystocia, macrosomia, hypoglycemia) outcomes were compared among women in the gestational weight gain categories in unadjusted and adjusted analyses with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CI reported. Covariates included age, race-ethnicity, tobacco use, insurance type, parity, prior cesarean delivery, pregestational diabetes, hypertension, and hospital type.

RESULTS

Of the 29,861 women included, 51% and 21% had gestational weight gain above and below the guidelines, respectively. There was an association between gestational weight gain above the IOM guidelines and cesarean delivery in both nulliparous women (adjusted OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.31-1.59) and multiparous women (adjusted OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.13-1.41) and hypertensive diseases of pregnancy in nulliparous and multiparous women combined (adjusted OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.66-2.04). For the neonatal outcomes, gestational weight gain above the IOM guidelines was associated with shoulder dystocia (adjusted OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.41-2.14), macrosomia (adjusted OR 2.66, 95% CI 2.03-3.48), and neonatal hypoglycemia (adjusted OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.16-2.22). Gestational weight gain below the guidelines was associated with spontaneous (adjusted OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.31-1.73) and indicated (adjusted OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.12-1.60) preterm birth.

CONCLUSION

In a large, diverse cohort with prospectively collected data, gestational weight gain below or above guidelines is associated with a variety of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Gestational weight gain across continents and ethnicity: systematic review and meta-analysis of maternal and infant outcomes in more than one million women

BACKGROUND

The association between Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines and pregnancy outcomes across ethnicities is uncertain. We evaluated the associations of gestational weight gain (GWG) outside 2009 IOM guidelines, with maternal and infant outcomes across the USA, western Europe and east Asia, with subgroup analyses in Asia. The aim was to explore ethnic differences in maternal prepregnancy body mass index (BMI), GWG and health outcomes across these regions.

METHODS

Systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of observational studies were used for the study. MEDLINE, MEDLINE In-Process, Embase and all Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) Reviews were searched from 1999 to 2017. Studies were stratified by prepregnancy BMI category and total pregnancy GWG. Odds ratio (ORs) 95% confidence intervals (CI) applied recommended GWG within each BMI category as the reference. Primary outcomes were small for gestational age (SGA), preterm birth and large for gestational age (LGA). Secondary outcomes were macrosomia, caesarean section and gestational diabetes.

RESULTS

Overall, 5874 studies were identified and 23 were included (n = 1,309,136). Prepregnancy overweight/obesity in the USA, Europe and Asia was measured at 42%, 30% and 10% respectively, with underweight 5%, 3% and 17%. GWG below guidelines in the USA, Europe and Asia was 21%, 18% and 31%, and above was 51%, 51% and 37% respectively. Applying regional BMI categories in Asia showed GWG above guidelines (51%) was similar to that in the USA and Europe. GWG below guidelines was associated with a higher risk of SGA (USA/Europe [OR 1.51; CI 1.39, 1.63]; Asia [1.63; 1.45, 1.82]) and preterm birth (USA/Europe [1.35; 1.17, 1.56]; Asia [1.06; 0.78, 1.44]) than GWG within guidelines. GWG above guidelines was associated with a higher risk of LGA (USA/Europe [1.93; 1.81, 2.06]; Asia [1.68; 1.51 , 1.87]), macrosomia (USA/Europe [1.87; 1.70, 2.06]; Asia [2.18; 1.91, 2.49]) and caesarean (USA/Europe [1.26; 1.21, 1.33]; Asia [1.37; 1.30, 1.45]). Risks remained elevated when regional BMI categories were applied for GWG recommendations. More women in Asia were categorised as having GWG below guidelines using World Health Organization (WHO) (60%) compared to regional BMI categories (16%), yet WHO BMI was not accompanied by increased risks of adverse outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Women in the USA and western Europe have higher prepregnancy BMI and higher rates of GWG above guidelines than women in east Asia. However, when using regional BMI categories in east Asia, rates of GWG above guidelines are similar across the three continents. GWG outside guidelines is associated with adverse outcomes across all regions. If regional BMI categories are used in east Asia, IOM guidelines are applicable in the USA, western Europe and east Asia.

Maternal overweight is not an independent risk factor for increased birth weight, leptin and insulin in newborns of gestational diabetic women: observations from the prospective 'EaCH' cohort study

BACKGROUND

Both gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) as well as overweight/obesity during pregnancy are risk factors for detrimental anthropometric and hormonal neonatal outcomes, identified to 'program' adverse health predispositions later on. While overweight/obesity are major determinants of GDM, independent effects on critical birth outcomes remain unclear. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate, in women with GDM, the relative/independent impact of overweight/obesity vs. altered glucose metabolism on newborn parameters.

METHODS

The prospective observational 'Early CHARITÉ (EaCH)' cohort study primarily focuses on early developmental origins of unfavorable health outcomes through pre- and/or early postnatal exposure to a 'diabetogenic/adipogenic' environment. It includes 205 mother-child dyads, recruited between 2007 and 2010, from women with treated GDM and delivery at the Clinic of Obstetrics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany. Recruitment, therapy, metabolite/hormone analyses, and data evaluation were performed according to standardized guidelines and protocols. This report specifically aimed to identify maternal anthropometric and metabolic determinants of anthropometric and critical hormonal birth outcomes in 'EaCH'.

RESULTS

Group comparisons, Spearman's correlations and unadjusted linear regression analyses initially confirmed that increased maternal prepregnancy body-mass-index (BMI) is a significant factor for elevated birth weight, cord-blood insulin and leptin (all P < 0.05). However, consideration of and adjustment for maternal glucose during late pregnancy showed that no maternal anthropometric parameter (weight, BMI, gestational weight gain) remained significant (all n.s.). In contrast, even after adjustment for maternal anthropometrics, third trimester glucose values (fasting and postprandial glucose at 32nd and 36th weeks' gestation, HbA1c in 3rd trimester and at delivery), were clearly positively associated with critical birth outcomes (all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Neither overweight/obesity nor gestational weight gain appear to be independent determinants of increased birth weight, insulin and leptin. Rather, 3rd trimester glycemia seems to be crucial for respective neonatal outcomes. Thus, gestational care and future research studies should greatly consider late pregnancy glucose in overweight/obese women with or without GDM, for evaluation of critical causes and interventional strategies against 'perinatal programming of diabesity' in the offspring.

Pregnancy outcomes in women with an early diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus

AIM

To examine pregnancy outcomes in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) based on the timing of diagnosis.

METHOD

We compared demographics, blood sugars and outcomes between women diagnosed before (n = 167) or after 24 weeks' gestation (n = 1202) in a single hospital between 2009 and 2012. Because early screening is risk-based we used propensity score modelling and conditional logistic regression to account for systematic differences.

RESULTS

Women diagnosed with GDM before 24 weeks were more likely to be obese and they were less likely to have excess gestational weight gain (35 vs. 45%, p = 0.04). Early diagnosis was associated with more frequent therapy including glyburide (65 vs. 56%, p < 0.001) and insulin (19 vs 6%, p < 0.001). After propensity score modelling and accounting for covariates, early diagnosis was associated with an increased risk for macrosomia (OR 2, 95% 1-4.15, p = 0.0498). Early diagnosis was not associated with other adverse outcomes. In a subgroup analysis comparing women treated with glyburide prior to 24 weeks compared to those diagnosed after 24 weeks, early diagnosis in women treated with glyburide was associated with an increased risk for macrosomia (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.1-5.4, P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Women diagnosed with GDM before 24 weeks have unique features, are at risk for adverse outcomes, and require targeted approaches to therapy.

Relationships between Breastfeeding Patterns and Maternal and Infant Body Composition over the First 12 Months of Lactation

Breastfeeding has been implicated in the establishment of infant appetite regulation, feeding patterns and body composition (BC). A holistic approach is required to elucidate relationships between infant and maternal BC and contributing factors, such as breastfeeding parameters. Associations between maternal and breastfed term infant BC (n = 20) and feeding parameters during first 12 months of lactation were investigated. BC was measured at 2, 5, 9 and/or 12 months postpartum with ultrasound skinfolds (US; infants only) and bioimpedance spectroscopy (infants and mothers). 24-h milk intake (MI) and feeding frequency (FFQ) were measured. Higher FFQ was associated with larger 24-h MI (p ≤ 0.003). Higher 24-h MI was associated with larger infant fat mass (FM) (US: p ≤ 0.002), greater percentage FM (US: p ≤ 0.008), greater FM index (FMI) (US: p ≤ 0.001) and lower fat-free mass index (FFMI) (US: p = 0.015). Lower FFQ was associated with both larger FFM (US: p ≤ 0.001) and FFMI (US: p < 0.001). Greater maternal adiposity was associated with smaller infant FFM measured with US (BMI: p < 0.010; %FM: p = 0.004; FMI: p < 0.011). Maternal BC was not associated with FFQ or 24-h MI. These results reinforce that early life is a critical window for infant programming and that breastfeeding may influence risk of later disease via modulation of BC.

Gestational weight gain in obese pregnancy: impact on maternal and foetal metabolic parameters and birthweight

The aim of this prospective, observational study was to investigate the impact of gestational weight gain (GWG) among euglycaemic obese pregnant women on maternal and foetal metabolic parameters and neonatal outcome. Total GWG was recorded for 101 obese, non-diabetic women with a singleton pregnancy. At 28 weeks of gestation, fasting maternal blood samples were analysed for glucose, insulin, c-peptide and lipids. Cord bloods were collected at delivery for analysis of glucose, c-peptide and lipids. GWG (mean ± SD =10.9 ± 5.5 kg) was greatest among those of younger age and lower body mass index and 58% of women exceeded the Institute of Medicine GWG recommendations of 5-9 kg for obese pregnancy. GWG was significantly positively associated with increased risk of birthweight >4 kg, cord c-peptide levels and inversely associated with cord total cholesterol. This study identified that higher GWG in obese pregnancy may increase the risk of macrosomia and neonatal hyperinsulinaemia, within a euglycaemic maternal cohort. Impact statement Excess gestational weight gain (GWG) and maternal obesity frequently co-occur with adverse consequences for maternal and neonatal health; however, little is known of the underlying biological pathways which may be affected to contribute to adverse outcomes. Greater understanding of the biological mechanisms involved may help guide future studies to develop targeted interventions for more effective clinical outcomes. This study identified that higher GWG among obese pregnant women resulted in foetal hyperinsulinaemia even in the absence of maternal hyperglycaemia, potentially representing a biological pathway for larger birthweight babies. These results may highlight the need for more intensive dietary and lifestyle interventions among obese women who would not normally receive additional counselling beyond standard antenatal care if not diagnosed with glucose intolerance in pregnancy.

Association of Gestational Weight Gain With Maternal and Infant Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

IMPORTANCE

Body mass index (BMI) and gestational weight gain are increasing globally. In 2009, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) provided specific recommendations regarding the ideal gestational weight gain. However, the association between gestational weight gain consistent with theIOM guidelines and pregnancy outcomes is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To perform a systematic review, meta-analysis, and metaregression to evaluate associations between gestational weight gain above or below the IOM guidelines (gain of 12.5-18 kg for underweight women [BMI <18.5]; 11.5-16 kg for normal-weight women [BMI 18.5-24.9]; 7-11 kg for overweight women [BMI 25-29.9]; and 5-9 kg for obese women [BMI ≥30]) and maternal and infant outcomes.

DATA SOURCES AND STUDY SELECTION

Search of EMBASE, Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews, MEDLINE, and MEDLINE In-Process between January 1, 1999, and February 7, 2017, for observational studies stratified by prepregnancy BMI category and total gestational weight gain.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Data were extracted by 2 independent reviewers. Odds ratios (ORs) and absolute risk differences (ARDs) per live birth were calculated using a random-effects model based on a subset of studies with available data.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Primary outcomes were small for gestational age (SGA), preterm birth, and large for gestational age (LGA). Secondary outcomes were macrosomia, cesarean delivery, and gestational diabetes mellitus.

RESULTS

Of 5354 identified studies, 23 (n = 1 309 136 women) met inclusion criteria. Gestational weight gain was below or above guidelines in 23% and 47% of pregnancies, respectively. Gestational weight gain below the recommendations was associated with higher risk of SGA (OR, 1.53 [95% CI, 1.44-1.64]; ARD, 5% [95% CI, 4%-6%]) and preterm birth (OR, 1.70 [1.32-2.20]; ARD, 5% [3%-8%]) and lower risk of LGA (OR, 0.59 [0.55-0.64]; ARD, -2% [-10% to -6%]) and macrosomia (OR, 0.60 [0.52-0.68]; ARD, -2% [-3% to -1%]); cesarean delivery showed no significant difference (OR, 0.98 [0.96-1.02]; ARD, 0% [-2% to 1%]). Gestational weight gain above the recommendations was associated with lower risk of SGA (OR, 0.66 [0.63-0.69]; ARD, -3%; [-4% to -2%]) and preterm birth (OR, 0.77 [0.69-0.86]; ARD, -2% [-2% to -1%]) and higher risk of LGA (OR, 1.85 [1.76-1.95]; ARD, 4% [2%-5%]), macrosomia (OR, 1.95 [1.79-2.11]; ARD, 6% [4%-9%]), and cesarean delivery (OR, 1.30 [1.25-1.35]; ARD, 4% [3%-6%]). Gestational diabetes mellitus could not be evaluated because of the nature of available data.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this systematic review and meta-analysis of more than 1 million pregnant women, 47% had gestational weight gain greater than IOM recommendations and 23% had gestational weight gain less than IOM recommendations. Gestational weight gain greater than or less than guideline recommendations, compared with weight gain within recommended levels, was associated with higher risk of adverse maternal and infant outcomes.

Validity of anthropometric equations to estimate infant fat mass at birth and in early infancy

BACKGROUND

In newborns and children, body fat estimation equations are often used at different ages than the age used to develop the equations. Limited validation studies exist for newborn body fat estimation equations at birth or later in infancy. The study purpose was to validate 4 newborn fat mass (FM) estimation equations in comparison to FM measured by air displacement plethysmography (ADP; the Pea Pod) at birth and 3 months.

METHODS

Ninety-five newborns (1-3 days) had their body composition measured by ADP and anthropometrics assessed by skinfolds. Sixty-three infants had repeat measures taken (3 months). FM measured by ADP was compared to FM from the skinfold estimation equations (Deierlein, Catalano, Lingwood, and Aris). Paired t-tests assessed mean differences, linear regression assessed accuracy, precision was assessed by R² and standard error of the estimate (SEE), and bias was assessed by Bland-Altman plots.

RESULTS

At birth, FM measured by ADP differed from FM estimated by Deierlein, Lingwood and Aris equations, but did not differ from the Catalano equation. At 3 months, FM measured by ADP was different from all equations. At both time points, poor precision and accuracy was detected. Bias was detected in most all equations.

CONCLUSIONS

Poor agreement, precision, and accuracy were found between prediction equations and the criterion at birth and 3 months.

The accuracy of self-reported pregnancy-related weight: a systematic review

Self-reported maternal weight is error-prone, and the context of pregnancy may impact error distributions. This systematic review summarizes error in self-reported weight across pregnancy and assesses implications for bias in associations between pregnancy-related weight and birth outcomes. We searched PubMed and Google Scholar through November 2015 for peer-reviewed articles reporting accuracy of self-reported, pregnancy-related weight at four time points: prepregnancy, delivery, over gestation and postpartum. Included studies compared maternal self-report to anthropometric measurement or medical report of weights. Sixty-two studies met inclusion criteria. We extracted data on magnitude of error and misclassification. We assessed impact of reporting error on bias in associations between pregnancy-related weight and birth outcomes. Women underreported prepregnancy (PPW: -2.94 to -0.29 kg) and delivery weight (DW: -1.28 to 0.07 kg), and over-reported gestational weight gain (GWG: 0.33 to 3 kg). Magnitude of error was small, ranged widely, and varied by prepregnancy weight class and race/ethnicity. Misclassification was moderate (PPW: 0-48.3%; DW: 39.0-49.0%; GWG: 16.7-59.1%), and overestimated some estimates of population prevalence. However, reporting error did not largely bias associations between pregnancy-related weight and birth outcomes. Although measured weight is preferable, self-report is a cost-effective and practical measurement approach. Future researchers should develop bias correction techniques for self-reported pregnancy-related weight.

Effects of maternal age, parity and pre-pregnancy body mass index on the glucose challenge test and gestational diabetes mellitus

Objectives

To study the effects of age, parity and body mass index (BMI) on the incidence of a positive 50 g glucose challenge test (OGCT) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in healthy pregnant Omani women.

Methods

A 50 g OGCT was performed on 307 healthy pregnant Omani women at 24–28 weeks of gestation. When the venous plasma glucose concentration (VPG) reached >7.8 mmol/l after 1 h, the OGCT was considered to be positive. Women with positive OGCTs had a confirmatory diagnosis of GDM, which was established by performing a 2-h 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). When either fasting or post-2-h 75 g OGTT values were >5.5 mmol/l or >8 mmol/l, respectively, women were considered diabetic.

Results

This study screened 307 women and identified 83 (27.03%) OGCT-positive and 23 (7.5%) GDM-positive cases. The incidences of a positive OGCT and GDM increased significantly with increasing maternal age from 20.0% to 2.2%, respectively, in women aged ≤25 years to 37.8% and 14.7%, respectively, in women aged >35 years (p = 0.02 and p = 0.009, respectively). The incidences of a positive OGCT and GDM increased markedly with increasing pre-pregnancy BMI, from 19.8% to 3.8%, respectively, in women with BMIs ≤25 kg/m² to 37.8% and 9.9%, respectively, in women with BMIs >25 kg/m² (p = 0.02 and p = 0.04, respectively).

Conclusion

Maternal age and pre-pregnancy BMI have profound effects on the incidences of a positive OGCT and GDM.

Excessive gestational weight gain in the first trimester among women with normal glucose tolerance and resulting neonatal adiposity

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether weight gain above or below Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommended amounts in an ethnically diverse obstetric population with normal glucose tolerance is associated with differences in neonatal adiposity.

STUDY DESIGN

In this prospective cohort study, healthy women with normal glucose tolerance based on the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups guidelines were enrolled. Gestational weight at multiple time points were collected. Neonatal adiposity was measured by air displacement plethysmography at 24 to 72 h of life. Analyses included Fisher's exact test, analysis of variance and a trajectory analysis using a group-based weight gain trajectory model with a censored normal distribution.

RESULTS

Overweight and obese women were more likely to exceed IOM weight gain guidelines. Regardless, there was no significant difference in %body fat of neonates born to mothers who either met or exceeded gestational weight gain (GWG) guidelines. GWG timing influenced neonatal anthropometrics: women who gained excessively by the first prenatal visit had neonates with significantly higher birth weight (3.91 vs 3.45 kg, P<0.001) and %body fat (13.7 vs 10.9%, P=0.0001) compared with women who had steady and moderate GWG.

CONCLUSION

Avoidance of excessive GWG in the first trimester may prevent high amounts of neonatal adiposity.

Persistent influence of maternal obesity on offspring health: Mechanisms from animal models and clinical studies

The consequences of excessive maternal weight and adiposity at conception for the offspring are now well recognized. Maternal obesity increases the risk of overweight and obesity even in children born with appropriate-for-gestational age (AGA) birth weights. Studies in animal models have employed both caloric excess and manipulation of macronutrients (especially high-fat) to mimic hypercaloric intake present in obesity. Findings from these studies show transmission of susceptibility to obesity, metabolic dysfunction, alterations in glucose homeostasis, hepatic steatosis, skeletal muscle metabolism and neuroendocrine changes in the offspring. This review summarizes the essential literature in this area in both experimental and clinical domains and focuses on the translatable aspects of these experimental studies. Moreover this review highlights emerging mechanisms broadly explaining maternal obesity-associated developmental programming. The roles of early developmental alterations and placental adaptations are also reviewed. Increasing evidence also points to changes in the epigenome and other emerging mechanisms such as alterations in the microbiome that may contribute to persistent changes in the offspring. Finally, we examine potential interventions that have been employed in clinical cohorts.

Maternal weight gain in excess of pregnancy guidelines is related to daughters being overweight 40 years later

BACKGROUND

Exceeding the Institute of Medicine guidelines for pregnancy weight gain increases childhood and adolescent obesity. However, it is unknown if these effects extend to midlife.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to determine if exceeding the Institute of Medicine guidelines for pregnancy weight gain increases risk of overweight/obesity in daughters 40 years later.

STUDY DESIGN

This cohort study is based on adult offspring in the Child Health and Development Studies and the Collaborative Perinatal Project pregnancy cohorts originally enrolled in the 1960s. In 2005 through 2008, 1035 daughters in their 40s were recruited to the Early Determinants of Mammographic Density study. We classified maternal pregnancy weight gain as greater than vs less than or equal to the 2009 clinical guidelines. We used logistic regression to compare the odds ratios of daughters being overweight/obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥25) at a mean age of 44 years between mothers who did not gain or gained more than pregnancy weight gain guidelines, accounting for maternal prepregnant BMI, and daughter body size at birth and childhood. We also examined potential family related confounding through a comparison of sisters using generalized estimating equations, clustered on sibling units and adjusted for maternal age and race.

RESULTS

Mothers who exceeded guidelines for weight gain in pregnancy were more likely to have daughters who were overweight/obese in their 40s (odds ratio [OR], 3.4; 95% confidence interval {CI}, 2.0-5.7). This magnitude of association translates to a relative risk (RR) increase of 50% (RR = 1.5; 95% CI, 1.3-1.6). The association was of the same magnitude when examining only the siblings whose mother exceeded guidelines in 1 pregnancy and did not exceed the guidelines in the other pregnancy. The association was stronger with increasing maternal prepregnancy BMI (P trend < .001). Compared to mothers with BMI <25 who did not exceed guidelines, the relative risks (RR) for having an overweight/obese adult daughter were 1.3 (95% CI, 1.1-1.7), 1.7 (95% CI, 1.4-2.1) and 1.8 (95% CI, 1.5-2.1), respectively, if mothers exceeded guidelines and their prepregnancy BMI was <25, overweight (BMI 25-<30), or obese (BMI >30). This pattern held irrespective of daughters' weight status at birth, at age 4 years, or at age 20 years.

CONCLUSION

Our findings support that obesity prevention before pregnancy and strategies to maintain weight gain during pregnancy within the IOM guidelines might reduce the risk of being overweight in midlife for the offspring.

Parental physical and lifestyle factors and their association with newborn body composition

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the parental physical and lifestyle determinants of newborn body composition.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Cork University Maternity Hospital, a tertiary referral hospital in Cork, Ireland.

POPULATION

All babies were recruited as part of a prospective birth cohort, Babies After

SCOPE

Evaluating the Longitudinal Impact Using Neurological and Nutritional Endpoints (BASELINE). These babies were recruited from women who had participated in the Screening of Pregnancy Endpoints (SCOPE) study Ireland, a prospective, multicentre cohort study

METHODS

Multivariate linear regression was used to analyse the effect of a range of maternal and paternal physical and lifestyle features on neonatal body fat percentage (BF%).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Neonatal BF%. Neonatal adiposity was assessed within 48 hours of birth using air displacement plethysmography (PEAPOD(®) ).

RESULTS

In all, 1243 infants were enrolled in the study. Increasing maternal body mass index (adjusted mean difference 0.09; 0.04, 0.15) and waist height ratio (adjusted mean difference 6.59; 0.27, 12.92) were significantly associated with increased neonatal BF%. In contrast, maternal smoking was associated with reduced neonatal BF% compared with non smokers (adjusted mean difference -0.55; -1.07, -0.03). Infant sex significantly altered neonatal BF%, with female infants having higher neonatal BF% compared with male infants (adjusted mean difference 1.98; 1.54, 2.53). No association was observed between paternal body mass index (BMI), paternal age or paternal smoking and neonatal BF%.

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal smoking, BMI, waist height ratio and infant sex were associated with altered BF%.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Maternal smoking, BMI, waist height ratio and infant sex are associated with altered neonatal body fat percentage.

Gestational weight gain according to Institute of Medicine recommendations in relation to infant size and body composition

BACKGROUND

Intrauterine life may be a critical period for programming childhood obesity; however, there is insufficient knowledge concerning how gestational weight gain (GWG) affects infant fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM).

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate relationships between GWG according to Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommendations and infant size, FM and FFM. We also investigated if the associations were different for normal-weight and overweight/obese women.

METHODS

This study included 312 healthy Swedish mother-infant pairs. Infant body composition at 1 week of age was assessed using air-displacement plethysmography. Maternal GWG was defined as below, within or above the 2009 IOM recommendations. Multiple regression analyses were used.

RESULTS

Compared with women whose weight gain was within IOM recommendations, women with weight gain below the recommendations had infants that were shorter (-0.7 cm, P = 0.008) when adjusting for confounders. Normal-weight women exceeding IOM recommendations had infants with higher FM (+58 g, P = 0.008) compared with normal-weight women who gained within the recommendations. No corresponding association was observed for overweight/obese women.

CONCLUSIONS

Inadequate GWG was associated with shorter infants, while excessive GWG was associated with greater infant FM for women who were of normal weight before pregnancy.

Longitudinal body composition of children born to mothers with normal weight, overweight, and obesity

OBJECTIVE

The longitudinal trajectories of body composition of children born to mothers with normal weight, overweight, and obesity have not been evaluated using precise body composition methods. This study investigated the relationship between maternal prepregnancy BMI and offspring body composition trajectories during the first 6 years of life.

METHODS

Healthy infants (N = 325) were assessed longitudinally (at ages 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 years) using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Mixed-effects regression for repeated measures was used to model each continuous outcome as a function of maternal BMI and covariates (race, gestational age, birth weight, and mode of infant feeding).

RESULTS

Maternal obesity differentially impacted body fat, but not bone mineral content or density, of girls and boys. Boys born to mothers with obesity have higher body fat from ages 2-6 years compared to boys born to normal-weight and overweight mothers (P < 0.05), whereas body composition of girls born to mothers with obesity was not different across groups during the first 6 years of life (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This clinical observational study demonstrates a sexual dimorphism in offspring body composition until age 6 years based on maternal BMI, with a greater effect of maternal adiposity seen in boys than in girls.

Gene Expression in Placentas From Nondiabetic Women Giving Birth to Large for Gestational Age Infants

Gestational diabetes, obesity, and excessive weight gain are known independent risk factors for the birth of a large for gestational age (LGA) infant. However, only 1 of the 10 infants born LGA is born by mothers with diabetes or obesity. Thus, the aim of the present study was to compare placental gene expression between healthy, nondiabetic mothers (n = 22) giving birth to LGA infants and body mass index-matched mothers (n = 24) giving birth to appropriate for gestational age infants. In the whole gene expression analysis, only 29 genes were found to be differently expressed in LGA placentas. Top upregulated genes included insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1, aminolevulinate δ synthase 2, and prolactin, whereas top downregulated genes comprised leptin, gametocyte-specific factor 1, and collagen type XVII α 1. Two enriched gene networks were identified, namely, (1) lipid metabolism, small molecule biochemistry, and organismal development and (2) cellular development, cellular growth, proliferation, and tumor morphology.

Optimizing Weight for Maternal and Infant Health - Tenable, or Too Late?

Obesity in pregnancy is the leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity, and gestational weight gain (GWG) is one modifiable risk factor that improves pregnancy outcomes. Most pregnant women gain more than the 2009 Institute of Medicine recommendations, particularly overweight and obese women. GWG even less than the 2009 IOM guidelines in obese women may improve pregnancy outcomes and reduce large-for-gestational-age (LGA) infants, an independent risk factor for childhood obesity, without increasing small-for-gestational-age (SGA) infants. Unfortunately, despite the fact that over 50 interventional trials designed to decrease excess GWG have been conducted, these interventions have been only modestly effective, and interventions designed to facilitate weight postpartum weight loss have also been disappointing. Successful interventions are of paramount importance not only to improve pregnancy outcomes but also for the future metabolic health of the mother and her infant, and may be key in attenuating the trans-generational risk on childhood obesity.