Breastfeeding and postpartum weight retention in a cohort of Brazilian women

A cross-sectional study of the association between breastfeeding history and overweight/obesity in postmenopausal women

OBJECTIVES

This study endeavors to augment comprehension of the association between breastfeeding and maternal weight within Asian populations.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the comprehensive 2011 research titled "Risk Evaluation of Cancers in Chinese Diabetic Individuals (REACTION): a longitudinal analysis," focusing specifically on postmenopausal women residing in the metropolitan precincts of Guiyang. It presents a cross-sectional study involving 5,987 parous postmenopausal women, aged 60.1 ± 6.9 years, who underwent assessments of body mass index and waist-to-height ratio. The probability of excessive weight or obesity was evaluated in relation to the aggregate duration of breastfeeding, using single-factor and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Following multiple adjustments for different confounders, the odds ratios (ORs) demonstrated that women who had borne a single child and breastfed for more than 12 months exhibited an increased prevalence of excessive weight (body mass index ≥24 kg/m 2 ) in contrast to those who abstained from breastfeeding (model I: OR, 1.481; 95% confidence interval, 1.124-1.952; P = 0.005; model II: OR, 1.471; 95% confidence interval, 1.113-1.944; P = 0.007). Conversely, among the subset of women who had given birth to two or more children, no noteworthy associations emerged between breastfeeding duration and the propensity for excessive weight or obesity (all models).

CONCLUSION

In the Asian population, the duration of breastfeeding does not appear to be necessarily linked to the prevalence of overweight or obesity in postmenopausal women.

Calcium plus vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy reduces postpartum fat mass in adolescents: A randomized trial

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy during adolescence may increase the risk of overweight/obesity. There is evidence that increasing calcium intake, alone or vitamin D-combined, may favor loss of weight and/or fat mass.

OBJECTIVES

We hypothesized that calcium supplementation during pregnancy reduces excessive fat accumulation during postpartum period. We aimed to investigate the effect of calcium plus vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy on body composition measurements throughout 1 year postpartum in Brazilian adolescents with habitually low calcium intake (~600 mg/day).

METHODS

Adolescents (14-19 years) were randomly assigned to receive a daily supplement (600 mg of calcium plus 200 UI of cholecalciferol, n = 30) or a placebo (n = 26) from 26 weeks of gestation until parturition. Body composition was determined at 5, 20, and 56 weeks postpartum by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. The effects of intervention group, time point, as well as their interaction were assessed using repeated measures mixed-effects models.

RESULTS

In the adjusted analysis, those supplemented showed lower total body mass [mean difference = -3.32 kg; confidence interval (CI) 95% -6.12 to -0.52 kg], trunk (-1.25 kg; CI 95% -2.34 to -0.15 kg), android (-0.29 kg; CI 95% -0.53 to -0.04 kg) and subcutaneous (-0.23 kg; CI 95% -0.43 to -0.03 kg) fat masses. In the supplemented group, BMI and postpartum weight retention significantly decreased from 5 to 20 weeks (-0.90 kg/m2 and -1.76 kg, respectively; p < .05). At 56 weeks, BMI was still lower (-1.22 kg/m2 ; p < .05) than 5 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that increasing calcium intake through supplementation in combination with vitamin D contributes to a more pronounced reduction in total body mass overtime, mostly as a consequence of fat mass reductions in central body regions. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01732328.

Maternal vitamin B3 and C intake in pregnancy influence birth weight at term

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to examine the influence of maternal nutrient intake during pregnancy on the baby's birth weight at term.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study design was used to evaluate a sample of women aged 18 to 44 y in the postpartum period in a public maternity department (2018-2019), with dietary intake collected by a validated food frequency questionnaire (n = 626 mother-offspring pairs). A multivariable linear regression model was used to identify the influence of nutrient intake during pregnancy on the baby's birth weight at term. The model was adjusted for maternal energy intake, education level, gestational age, physical activity, and supplementation during pregnancy.

RESULTS

Maternal intake of vitamins B₃ and C was associated with an increase in birth weight (respectively, β = 0.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.01-0.02; P = 0.01; and β = 0.01; 95% CI, 0.01-0.02; P = 0.02). Prepregnancy body mass index (β = 0.01; 95% CI, 0.01-0.02; P = 0.001), gestational weight gain (β = 0.02; 95% CI, 0.01-0.02; P < 0.001), parity (β = 0.05; 95% CI, 0.02-0.09; P = 0.001), and male babies (β = 0.08; 95% CI, 0.01-0.02; P = 0.02) also contributed to increase birth weight. These variables explained about 27% of the variation of this outcome (adjusted R² = 0.27, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings provide evidence that maternal intake of vitamins B₃ and C influences increased birth weight. In addition, prepregnancy body mass index, gestational weight gain, parity, and male babies contribute to the same outcome.

Metabolic Conditions Including Obesity, Diabetes, and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Implications for Breastfeeding and Breastmilk Composition

Breastfeeding is internationally recognized as the recommended standard for infant nutrition, informed by evidence of its multiple benefits for both mother and baby. In the context of common metabolic conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, diabetes (type 1, type 2, and gestational), and obesity, breastfeeding may be particularly beneficial for both mother and infant. However, there is evidence of delayed lactogenesis and reduced breastfeeding rates and duration in women with these conditions, and the effects of altered maternal metabolic environments on breastmilk composition (and potentially infant outcomes) are incompletely understood. In this review, we explore the relationships between maternal metabolic conditions, lactogenesis, breastfeeding, and breastmilk composition. We examine relevant potential mechanisms, including the central role of insulin both in lactogenesis and as a milk-borne hormone. We also describe the bioactive and hormonal components of breastmilk and how these may link maternal and infant health.

Dose-Response Relationships between Breastfeeding and Postpartum Weight Retention Differ by Pre-Pregnancy Body-Mass Index in Taiwanese Women

Postpartum weight retention (PWR) is a risk factor for future obesity. The role of breastfeeding in reducing PWR is not fully understood. We examined the relationship between PWR and the duration of exclusive/partial breastfeeding in 52,367 postpartum women from 2012–2016 Taiwan national breastfeeding surveys. The women were interviewed at 7–14 months postpartum. Non-linear models were fit to examine the association between PWR and breastfeeding duration. PWR adjusted means and 95% confidence intervals were plotted and compared for the duration of exclusive/partial breastfeeding in the total sample and between pre-pregnancy body-mass index (BMI) groups (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese). Women who breastfed exclusively for >30 days showed significantly lower PWR than those who did not breastfeed and those who breastfed partially for the same duration, thereafter each additional duration of 30 days being associated with an average of 0.1–0.2 kg less PWR. Women who breastfed partially for 120 days showed lower PWR than those who did not or those who ceased to breastfeed, thereafter each additional duration of 30 days being associated with an average of 0.1 kg less PWR. Duration of breastfeeding needed to achieve significantly less PWR differed between pre-pregnancy BMI groups, but the effect of exclusive breastfeeding appeared earlier in the normal weight group. Women with obesity who breastfed exclusively for >30 or partially for >180 days, had lower PWR than non-obese groups. The observed dose–response relationship between breastfeeding duration and PWR supports the “every feeding matters” approach in breastfeeding promotion. The larger effect of exclusive and partial breastfeeding on PWR in women with obesity may draw special attention of breastfeeding promotion.

Longer duration of exclusive breastfeeding reduces maternal weight retention: results from the CLaB study

Abstract Objectives: to evaluate the relation between breastfeeding and postpartum weight reten-tion. Methods: this prospective cohort study involved 641 newborns and their mothers, followed up to twelve months postpartum. Data were collected from June 2015 to February 2017. In the first interview, we investigated data regarding socioeconomic and demographic characteristics, obstetric history, weight, and gestational age of the infant at birth. Maternal weight and breastfeeding status were obtained at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months postpartum at the mother’s home. A descriptive analysis of maternal weight retention according to the lactation status was performed. Multiple linear regression models evaluated the effect on exclusive breastfeeding and total breastfeeding duration on maternal weight retention at 6 and 12 months postpartum, considering potential confounders. Results: 512 and 490 mothers were evaluated at six months and at twelve months post-partum, and the mean weight retention was 1.79 (SD=5.52) and 1.69 (SD=6.69) kg, respectively. Regardless of the confounders, the mean postpartum weight reduction for each day of exclusive breastfeeding was 11 (CI95%= -0.019 to -0.003) and 16 grams (CI95%= -0.026 to -0.007) for 6 and 12 months, respectively. The total maternal breastfeeding duration had the same effect. Conclusions: longer periods of exclusive breastfeeding and total breastfeeding are associated with lower postpartum weight retention.

Association of Full Breastfeeding Duration with Postpartum Weight Retention in a Cohort of Predominantly Breastfeeding Women

Full breastfeeding (FBF) is promoted as effective for losing pregnancy weight during the postpartum period. This study evaluated whether longer FBF is associated with lower maternal postpartum weight retention (PPWR) as compared to a shorter FBF duration. The MILK (Mothers and Infants Linked for Healthy Growth) study is an ongoing prospective cohort of 370 mother-infant dyads, all of whom fully breastfed their infants for at least 1 month. Breastfeeding status was subsequently self-reported by mothers at 3 and 6 months postpartum. Maternal PPWR was calculated as maternal weight measured at 1, 3, and 6 months postpartum minus maternal prepregnancy weight. Using linear mixed effects models, by 6 months postpartum, adjusted means ± standard errors for weight retention among mothers who fully breastfed for 1-3 (3.40 ± 1.16 kg), 3-6 (1.41 ± 0.69 kg), and ≥6 months (0.97 ± 0.32 kg) were estimated. Compared to mothers who reported FBF for 1-3 months, those who reported FBF for 3-6 months and ≥6 months both had lower PPWR over the period from 1 to 6 months postpartum (p = 0.04 and p < 0.01, respectively). However, PPWR from 3 to 6 months was not significantly different among those who reported FBF for 3-6 versus ≥6 months (p > 0.05). Interventions to promote FBF past 3 months may increase the likelihood of postpartum return to prepregnancy weight.

Predictors of postpartum weight retention among urban Malaysian mothers: A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Women of childbearing age are predisposed to becoming overweight or obese. This study determines the mean, prevalence and factors associated with 6 months postpartum weight retention among urban Malaysian mothers.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted at baseline (after delivery), 2, 4 and 6 months postpartum. From 638 eligible mothers initially recruited, 420 completed until 6 months. Dependent variable was weight retention, defined as difference between weight at 6 months postpartum and pre-pregnancy weight, and weight retention ≥5kg was considered excessive. Independent variables included socio-demographic, history of pregnancy and delivery, lifestyle, practices and traditional postpartum practices.

RESULTS

Average age was 29.61±4.71years, majority (83.3%) were Malays, 58.8% (low education), 70.0% (employed), 65.2% (middle income family), 33.8% (primiparous) and 66.7% (normal/instrumental delivery). Average gestational weight gain was 12.90±5.18kg. Mean postpartum weight retention was 3.12±4.76kg, 33.8% retaining ≥5kg. Bivariable analysis showed low income, primiparity, gestational weight gain ≥12kg, less active physically, higher energy, protein, carbohydrate and fat intake in diet, never using hot stone compression and not continuing breastfeeding were significantly associated with higher 6 months postpartum weight retention. From multivariable linear regression analysis, less active physically, higher energy intake in diet, gestational weight gain ≥12kg, not continuing breastfeeding 6 months postpartum and never using hot stone compression could explain 55.1% variation in 6 months postpartum weight retention.

CONCLUSION

Women need to control gestational weight gain, remain physically active, reduce energy intake, breastfeed for at least 6 months and use hot stone compression to prevent high postpartum weight retention.

Association between breastfeeding duration and postpartum weight retention of lactating mothers: A meta-analysis of cohort studies

BACKGROUND & AIMS

To clarify the relationship between different breastfeeding duration and postpartum weight retention through meta-analysis.

METHODS

In this study, all relevant studies that described the effect of breastfeeding duration on postpartum weight retention were identified from Pubmed, Cochrane, and WANGFANG databases and so on (1960-2016). This meta-analysis had been registered in International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42016038409).

RESULTS

Fourteen cohort studies involving 66 comparisons were included. Compared with bottle-feeding mothers, breastfeeding mothers had significantly lower postpartum weight retention of -0.38 kg (95% confidence interval: -0.64, -0.11 kg). Subgroup analysis showed that, mothers who were primipara, less than 30 years old or normal pre-pregnancy body mass index had lower postpartum weight retention. When breastfeeding duration were stratified into <12 weeks, 12 weeks-24 weeks, 24 weeks-48 weeks, and ≥48 weeks, postpartum weight retention in breastfeeding women presented a U-shaped trend: a decline during early breastfeeding duration (year 1) (from 0.23 kg at < 12 weeks to -1.58 kg at 24-48 weeks) and then an increase in the follow-up duration (from -1.58 kg at 24-48 weeks to -0.97 kg at more than 48 weeks).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicated that breastfeeding including exclusive breastfeeding and mixed breastfeeding were inversely related to postpartum weight retention. The decreasing influence of breastfeeding was more significant when the lactating mothers were less than 30 years old, primipara, normal pre-pregnant body mass index, or breastfeeding duration for 6-12 months.

Home visitation programs: an untapped opportunity for the delivery of early childhood obesity prevention

BACKGROUND

Extant obesity efforts have had limited impact among low-income underserved children, in part because of limitations inherent to existing programs: (i) short duration and low intensity; (ii) late timing of implementation, when children are already overweight or obese; (iii) intervention delivery limiting their accessibility and sustainability; and (iv) failure to address barriers such as a lack of culturally competent services, poverty and housing instability, which interfere with healthy lifestyle changes.

OBJECTIVE

This concept paper proposes an innovative model of obesity prevention implemented in infancy and sustained throughout early childhood to address the limitations of current obesity prevention efforts. Specifically, we propose to integrate sustained, weekly, in-home obesity prevention as part of the services already delivered by ongoing Home Visitation Programs, which currently do not target obesity prevention.

CONCLUSION

The home visiting structure represents an ideal model for impactful obesity prevention as home visitation programs: (i) already provide comprehensive services to diverse low-income infants and families who are most at risk for obesity and poor health because of socio-economic and structural conditions; (ii) services are initiated in infancy and sustained throughout critical developmental periods for the formation of healthy/unhealthy behaviors; and (iii) have been in place for more than 40 years, with a widespread presence across the United States and nationwide, which is critical for the scalability and sustainability of obesity prevention.

Factors associated with nutritional outcomes in the mother–child dyad: a population-based cross-sectional study

Objective

To estimate factors associated with double burden of nutritional outcomes in the mother–child dyad at the household level (child stunting and/or maternal overweight).

Design

Cross-sectional study using the Brazilian Demographic and Health Survey. Nutritional outcomes were: mother with normal weight and child with normal height; overweight mother and child with normal height; mother with normal weight and short-stature child; and overweight mother and child with short stature (double burden). The child was classified as short when height-for-ageZ-score was <−2 and the mother as overweight when BMI was ≥25·00 kg/m2. Socio-economic status, environment, social vulnerability, maternal characteristics and the child’s food intake were the exposure factors. The hierarchical approach for multinomial logistic regression modelling was used to assess the associations.

Setting

National Demographic and Health Survey of Children and Women conducted in Brazil, 2006–2007.

Subjects

Mother–child dyads (n3676).

Results

After adjustments, lower maternal educational level (OR=3·53; 95 % CI 1·33, 9·33) and inadequate household (non-masonry house; OR=2·54; 95 % CI 1·39, 4·66) were associated with the double burden of malnutrition. Mother’s short stature (OR=3·41; 95 % CI 1·76, 6·61), child’s vegetable intake on less than or equal to 4 d/week (OR=2·21; 95 % CI 1·03, 4·75) and inadequate household (non-masonry house; OR=2·29; 95 % CI 1·36, 3·87) were associated with child’s short stature. The lack of breast-feeding (OR=2·00; 95 % CI 1·07, 3·72) was associated with maternal overweight.

Conclusions

The present findings contribute to establishing strategies promoting health and healthy diets, by considering the growth deficit and overweight/obesity concomitantly.

Breastfeeding and maternal weight changes during 24 months post-partum: a cohort study

The relationship between breastfeeding and the loss of weight gained during pregnancy remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between breastfeeding and maternal weight changes during 24 months post-partum. We studied a dynamic cohort comprising 315 women living in two cities in the state of Bahia, Brazil. The outcome variable was change in the post-partum weight; the exposure variable was the duration and intensity of breastfeeding. Demographic, socio-economic, environmental, reproductive and lifestyle factors were integrated in the analysis as covariates. The data were analysed using multiple linear regression and linear mixed-effects models. The average cumulative weight loss at 6 months post-partum was 2.561 kg (SD 4.585), increasing at 12 months (3.066 kg; SD 5.098) and decreasing at 18 months (1.993 kg; SD 5.340), being 1.353 kg (SD, 5.574) at 24 months post-partum. After adjustment, the data indicated that for every 1-point increase in breastfeeding score, the estimated average post-partum weight loss observed was 0.191 kg at 6 months (P = 0.03), 0.090 kg at 12 months (P = 0.043), 0.123 kg at 18 months (P < 0.001) and 0.077 kg at 24 months (P = 0.001). Based on these results, we concluded that despite the low expressiveness, the intensity and duration of breastfeeding was associated with post-partum weight loss at all stages of the study during the 24-month follow-up.

Breast-feeding and postpartum weight retention: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Weight gained during pregnancy and postpartum weight retention might contribute to obesity in women of childbearing age. Whether breast-feeding (BF) may decrease postpartum weight retention (PPWR) is still controversial. The purpose of our systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the relationship between BF and PPWR.

DESIGN

Three databases were systematically reviewed and the reference lists of relevant articles were checked. Meta-analysis was performed to quantify the pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) of BF on PPWR by using a random-effect model. Heterogeneity was tested using the χ 2 test and I 2 statistics. Publication bias was estimated from Egger's test (linear regression method) or Begg's test (rank correlation method).

RESULTS

Among 349 search hits, eleven studies met the inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis. Seven studies were conducted in the USA, one in Brazil, one in France, one in Georgia and one in Croatia. Compared with formula-feeding, BF for 3 to ≤6 months seemed to have a negative influence on PPWR and if BF continued for >6 months had little or no influence on PPWR. In a subgroup meta-analysis, the results did not change substantially after the analysis had been classified by available confounding factors. There was no indication of a publication bias from the result of either Egger's test or Begg's test.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the available evidence held belief that BF decreases PPWR, more robust studies are needed to reliably assess the impact of patterns and duration of BF on PPWR.

Association of breastfeeding with postmenopausal visceral adiposity among three racial/ethnic groups

OBJECTIVE

We examined the association between breastfeeding and postmenopausal visceral adiposity.

METHODS

Participants were community-dwelling women aged 55-80 from the Caucasian Rancho Bernardo Study, the Filipino Women's Health Study, and the Health Assessment Study of African-American Women who had visceral adipose tissue (VAT) measurements by computed tomography between 2000 and 2002. Linear regression was used to determine the association between average breastfeeding duration per child and VAT.

RESULTS

In Caucasian, Filipino, and African-American women, average number of live births was 3, 4, and 3; average breastfeeding duration was 4.3, 1.8, and 5.1 months, respectively. Filipino women had more live births, were more likely to breastfeed, and breastfed shorter durations. African-American women had lower VAT, despite higher subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), BMI, and waist girth. Women who breastfed >3 months on average had 8.8 cm(3) lower VAT than women who breastfed ≤3 months, independent of covariates. Women who initiated breastfeeding had lower BMI and waist girth than those who did not, but they did not differ by VAT unless they breastfed >3 months. Associations were independent of race/ethnicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest breastfeeding initiation is associated with reduced BMI and smaller waist girth, and breastfeeding >3 months is associated with lower postmenopausal VAT.

Breast-feeding in relation to weight retention up to 36 months postpartum in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study: modification by socio-economic status?

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the association between full breast-feeding up to 6 months as well as partial breast-feeding after 6 months and maternal weight retention at 6, 18 and 36 months after delivery in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa), conducted by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health.

DESIGN

Cohort study. Information on exposure and outcome was collected by questionnaire.

SETTING

Norway.

SUBJECTS

Women at 6 months (n 49 676), 18 months (n 27 187) and 36 months (n 17 343) postpartum.

RESULTS

Longer duration of full breast-feeding as well as partial breast-feeding was significantly related to lower weight retention at 6 months. At 18 months full breast-feeding (0-6 months) and partial breast-feeding for 12-18 months were significantly related to lower weight retention. At 36 months only full breast-feeding (0-6 months) was significantly related to lower weight retention. For each additional month of full breast-feeding, maternal weight was lowered by 0·50 kg/month at 6 months, 0·10 kg/month at 18 months and 0·14 kg/month at 36 months (adjusted for pre-pregnant BMI, pregnancy weight gain, age and parity). Partial breast-feeding resulted in 0·25 kg/month lower maternal weight at 6 months. Interactions were found between household income and full breast-feeding in relation to weight retention at 6, 18 and 36 months, indicating most benefit among women with low income.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study supports the hypothesis that full breast-feeding contributes to lower postpartum weight retention and shows that the effect is maintained for as long as 3 years postpartum.

Association between gestational weight gain according to prepregnancy body mass index and short postpartum weight retention in postpartum women

BACKGROUND & AIMS

This study aims to assess the relationship among prepregnancy body mass index, gestational weight gain, and postpartum weight retention, and to clarify the predictors of the amount of weight retained by Chinese women after pregnancy.

METHODS

The multistage stratified random sampling was used in the cross-sectional study.

RESULTS

The subjects included 1643 women. Mean gestational weight gain was 15.9 kg and mean postpartum weight retention was 5.1 kg. 43.2% of women gained excessive gestational weight gain and 53.3% of women gained 5 kg or more postpartum weight retention. In addition, the proportions of underweight women with inadequate weight gain and overweight women with excessive weight gain were 24.2% and 52.3%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis showed that the adjusted OR of excessive gestational weight gain was 1.74 (95% CI: 1.09-2.79) in overweight women compared with normal weight women. The postpartum weight retention and the proportion of women with postpartum weight retention of 5 kg or more were significantly higher in the excessive gestational weight gain women than in the adequate gestational weight gain women in all three body mass index groups. The adjusted OR of a weight increase of 5 kg or more was at least 1.90 for underweight, normal weight, and overweight women with a gestational weight gain above the recommended amount compared with those with a gestational weight gain within the recommended amount.

CONCLUSIONS

Gestational weight gain above the recommended amount increases the risk of postpartum weight retention in all body mass index groups.

Weight during the postpartum period: what can health care workers do?

To describe the gestational month-to-month weight change, obstetric and lifestyle factors influencing postpartum weight retention (PPWR) and to suggest possible interventions to prevent PPWR. This study was part of a larger research project concerning maternal weight change after childbirth. 343 women were recruited on five maternity wards in the Antwerp region, Belgium. Weight and height were assessed by the researchers during two home visits at 3 and 14 months postpartum and participants completed a questionnaire investigating obstetric and lifestyle factors during the first home visit. The monthly weights in between the home visits were self-reported by the participants. Full data were available for 75 women. One year after childbirth 52.0 % of the women faced postpartum weight retention. The different monthly weight points within the changes differed significantly from each other up to sixth months postpartum. Prepregnancy weight, exceeding the recommendations from the Institute of Medicine (IOM) concerning weight gain during pregnancy, smoking behaviour and exercising during pregnancy significantly influenced the postpartum weight change. The amount of weight gained during pregnancy, breastfeeding, possible postpartum depression and experiencing a shortage of information concerning the weight change after childbirth significantly influenced postpartum weight retention. Weight gain during pregnancy, exceeding IOM-criteria, breastfeeding, depression and lack of information determine PPWR and can be modulated by interventions such as routine weighing or screening of pregnant women. Several of these influencing factors can be preventively influenced by health care workers. Overall, we believe women could benefit from more guidance before, during and after pregnancy. Moreover, we recommend to reintroduce routine weighing of pregnant women as weight gain during pregnancy seems one of the most important factors involved in PPWR.

Breastfeeding-Friendly Primary Care Initiative: degree of implementation in a Brazilian metropolis

OBJECTIVE: This study assessed the degree of implementation of the Breastfeeding-Friendly Primary Care Initiative in a Brazilian metropolis. METHODS: A tool with 55 items and a maximum score of 10 points, based on validated protocols, was developed for assessing the degree of implementation of the abovementioned initiative. This tool was used on a probabilistic sample of municipal primary care units in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (n=56). Managers (n=56), healthcare practitioners (n=541) and users (n=985) were interviewed. RESULTS: The mean score for the degree of implementation of the Breastfeeding-Friendly Primary Care Initiative in the study units was 5.45 (95%CI: 5.11 - 5.78), the maximum being 10.00. Existence of written guidelines and training obtained the worst scores. Breast massage and manual milk expression techniques; knowledge about contraception and the risks associated with the use of baby formulas, bottles, and pacifiers; and existence of support groups obtained intermediate scores. Provision of information and recommendations on breastfeeding rights and advantages; addressing users' worries, life experiences, and doubts; and encouraging cue feeding achieved the best scores. CONCLUSION: The proposed tool assessed the general degree of implementation of the Breastfeeding-Friendly Primary Care Initiative and of each group of actions associated with the "Ten Steps", providing information for restructuring the strategies used in Rio de Janeiro. The degree of implementation of breastfeeding promotion, protection, and support set by the initiative in this city is intermediate, with its items having been implemented to different degrees.

Utility of stages of change construct in the planning of physical activity interventions among playgroup mothers

BACKGROUND

The objective of this research was to assess the physical activity levels among a unique cohort of Western Australian (WA) mothers with young children who attend a WA Playgroup. Associated factors were also investigated, including self-efficacy for physical activity, social support for exercise, relevant socio-demographic correlates, as well as the stages of change construct within the Transtheoretical Model (TTM).

RESULTS

421 women completed a questionnaire assessing physical activity behaviours. Of these, 368 participants completed the relevant physical activity evaluation items. 82.5% and 17.5% of the sample were classified as active and inactive, respectively. Associations between physical activity status and exercise stage of change were found. Additional associations were established for partner support and self-efficacy for physical activity.

CONCLUSION

The majority of the sample was classified as active. Despite the high percentage of active participants, this study confirms the usefulness of the stages of change measure in that it can be utilised by health promotion practitioners to report physical activity behaviour and develop appropriate intervention strategies among a time poor and hard to reach population. Specifically the results are relevant to mothers in over 16,000 WA families who are involved with Playgroup WA programs. Interventions aimed at improving physical activity levels in mothers with young children should also consider the need to improve self-efficacy and social support.

Produção científica sobre nutrição no âmbito da Atenção Primária à Saúde no Brasil: uma revisão de literatura

INTRODUÇÃO: Ações de nutrição na Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS) têm importante papel na promoção da saúde e na prevenção e tratamento de agravos. OBJETIVO: Mapear, sistematizar e avaliar a produção científica da nutrição no âmbito da APS no Brasil. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de uma revisão de literatura. A busca de artigos foi feita no PubMed e Lilacs, utilizando descritores referentes à APS e à nutrição. Foram levantados estudos conduzidos no Brasil, com profissionais ou população atendida pelo SUS na APS e publicados até março de 2011. Ainda, foram consultadas as referências dos artigos selecionados, a fim de identificar outros estudos. RESULTADOS: Do total de artigos localizados, 68 foram elegíveis e 49 foram identificados nas listas de referências, totalizando 117 artigos analisados. Estes foram, em sua maioria, artigos originais, quantitativos, conduzidos no estado de SP, pela USP e publicados de 2002 a 2011. Abordavam o diagnóstico, tendo como objeto a avaliação do estado nutricional e envolviam crianças. CONCLUSÃO: A produção na área é crescente, porém há necessidade de redirecionar a abordagem e o objeto de futuros estudos, focando em modelos de intervenção e em avaliação de programas.

Duration of lactation, maternal metabolic profile, and body composition in the Norwegian EBBA I-study

OBJECTIVE

There is conflicting evidence as to whether duration of lactation may decrease the risk of subsequent development of an unfavorable maternal metabolic profile, including overweight and obesity. We hypothesized that duration of lactation is associated with a more favorable metabolic profile and healthier anthropometric measurements.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Ninety-eight parous women were studied from the Norwegian EBBAI-study (Energy Balance and Breast cancer Aspects-study), a cross-sectional study of healthy premenopausal women 25-35 years old. Historical lactation data were collected, anthropometric measurements were taken, fasting blood samples (for serum glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) were drawn, and women were asked to fill in a precoded food diary.

RESULTS

Mean time since last birth was 4.7 years, mean number of children was 1.9, mean total duration of lactation was 19 months, and average length of lactation per child was 10.3 months. Women who on average lactated for less than 10 months per child had higher mean levels of fasting serum glucose (5.2 mmol/L vs. 5.0 mmol/L, p=0.04), serum triglyceride (0.91 mmol/L vs. 0.66 mmol/L, p=0.001), and serum cholesterol (4.78 mmol/L vs. 4.32 mmol/L, p=0.004) and a higher waist-to-hip ratio (0.81 vs. 0.77, p=0.001) than women who lactated for 10 months or more per child. The inverse association between average length of lactation per child and waist-to-hip ratio persisted after adjustment for potential confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

These results support the hypothesis that duration of lactation may be associated with a healthier metabolic profile and healthier anthropometric measurements, especially lipid levels and waist-to-hip ratio, even years after weaning.

A comparison of Mediterranean-style and MyPyramid diets on weight loss and inflammatory biomarkers in postpartum breastfeeding women

BACKGROUND

Of postpartum women, 15%-20% retain ≥ 5 kg of their gestational weight gain, increasing risk for adult weight gain. Postpartum women are also in a persistent elevated inflammatory state. Both factors could increase the risk of obesity-related chronic disease. We hypothesized that breastfeeding women randomized to a Mediterranean-style (MED) diet for 4 months would demonstrate significantly greater reductions in body weight, body fat, and inflammation than women randomized to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) MyPyramid diet for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding (comparison diet).

METHODS

A randomized, controlled dietary intervention trial was conducted in 129 overweight (body mass index [BMI] 27.2 ± 4.9 kg/m(2)), mostly exclusively breastfeeding (73.6%) women who were a mean 17.5 weeks postpartum. Dietary change was assessed using a validated Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) before and after intervention as well as plasma fatty acid measures (gas chromatography/flame ionization detector [GC/FID]). Anthropometric measurements and biomarkers of inflammation, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), also were assessed at baseline and 4 months via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

Participants in both diet groups demonstrated significant (p<0.001) reductions in body weight (-2.3 ± 3.4 kg and -3.1 ± 3.4 kg for the MED and comparison diets, respectively) and significant (p ≤ 0.002) reductions in all other anthropometric measurements; no significant between-group differences were shown as hypothesized. A significant decrease in TNF-α but not IL-6 was also demonstrated in both diet groups, with no significant between-group difference.

CONCLUSIONS

Both diets support the promotion of postpartum weight loss and reduction in inflammation (TNF-α) in breastfeeding women.

Effect of physical activity intervention based on a pedometer on physical activity level and anthropometric measures after childbirth: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy and childbirth are associated with weight gain in women, and retention of weight gained during pregnancy can lead to obesity in later life. Diet and physical activity are factors that can influence the loss of retained pregnancy weight after birth. Exercise guidelines exist for pregnancy, but recommendations for exercise after childbirth are virtually nonexistent. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of physical activity intervention based on pedometer on physical activity level and anthropometric measures of women after childbirth.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized controlled trial in which 66 women who had given birth 6 weeks to 6 months prior were randomly assigned to receive either a 12 week tailored program encouraging increased walking using a pedometer (intervention group, n = 32) or routine postpartum care (control group, n = 34). During the 12-week study period, each woman in the intervention group wore a pedometer and recorded her daily step count. The women were advised to increase their steps by 500 per week until they achieved the first target of 5000 steps per day and then continued to increase it to minimum of 10,000 steps per day by the end of 12th week. Assessed outcomes included anthropometric measures, physical activity level, and energy expenditure per week. Data were analyzed using the paired t-test, independent t-test, Mann-Whitney, chi-square, Wilcoxon, covariance analysis, and the general linear model repeated measures procedure as appropriate.

RESULTS

After 12 weeks, women in the intervention group had significantly increased their physical activity and energy expenditure per week (4394 vs. 1651 calorie, p < 0.001). Significant differences between-group in weight (P = 0.001), Body Mass Index (P = 0.001), waist circumference (P = 0.001), hip circumference (P = 0.032) and waist-hip ratio (P = 0.02) were presented after the intervention. The intervention group significantly increased their mean daily step count over the study period (from 3249 before, to 9960 after the intervention, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

A physical activity intervention based on pedometer is an effective means to increase physical activity; reducing retention of weight gained during pregnancy and can improve anthropometric measures in postpartum women.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN: IRCT201105026362N1.

Postpartum behaviour as predictor of weight change from before pregnancy to one year postpartum

Background

Postpartum weight retention affects many women and increases the risk of becoming overweight. The research objective was to study modifiable factors contributing to weight change at one year postpartum.

Methods

In this prospective cohort, postpartum behavior, such as physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep, and intake of total energy, total fat and saturated fatty acids of 118 Dutch women were assessed in 2003/2004 by self-report at 6 weeks, 6 and 12 months postpartum. Mean postpartum scores were computed for the behavioral measures. In linear regression models it was determined which factors were associated with average weight change from before pregnancy to one year postpartum. Furthermore, factors associated with substantial postpartum weight retention (≥ 5 kg) were also studied in logistic regression models.

Results

At one year postpartum, the average weight of participants had increased by 0.9 kg (SD 4.4). Moreover, 20% of the women retained ≥ 5 kg. Women who perceived themselves more physically active than others were almost ten times less likely to retain ≥ 5 kg than women who perceived themselves equally active (OR = 0.11, 95%CI: 0.02 - 0.66). Exceeding the guideline for saturated fatty acid intake (OR = 3.40, 95%CI: 1.04 - 11.11), total gestational weight gain (OR = 1.14/kg, 95%CI: 1.01 - 1.27), and not having completed post high school education (OR = 5.13, 95%CI: 1.66 - 15.90) increased the odds of retaining ≥ 5 kg.

Conclusions

Since one in five women had substantial weight retention postpartum, effective interventions for the prevention of weight retention are much needed. Future studies should evaluate whether interventions focusing on the identified modifiable postpartum factors are successful in reducing weight retention after childbirth.

Assessment of protein intake during pregnancy using a food frequency questionnaire and the effect on postpartum body weight variation

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of protein intake during pregnancy on postpartum weight variation. This was a prospective cohort study with 421 women interviewed at 15 days (baseline) and 2, 6, and 9 months postpartum. Data on diet were obtained using the food frequency questionnaire, focusing on the second and third trimesters. Protein intake was considered adequate when women consumed ≥ 1.2g of protein per kg body weight, and inadequate when < 1.2g/kg. The study adopted the mixed effects model for repeated measurements over time. The results showed a mean postpartum weight loss of 0.409kg/month (±0.12) (p < 0.01). Women with adequate protein intake during pregnancy lost an additional 0.094kg/month (±0.04) during postpartum (p = 0.03) when compared to women with inadequate intake. The model was adjusted for energy, % body fat, stature, age, schooling, skin color, and smoking. Recommended protein intake during pregnancy favored postpartum weight reduction.

A preliminary study on the pattern of weight change from pregnancy to 6 months postpartum: a latent growth model approach

OBJECTIVE

There is a lack of comprehensive understanding about patterns of weight change from pregnancy to childbirth and beyond. We describe the trajectory of weight change pattern from pre-pregnancy to 6 months postpartum and examine demographical and perinatal variables that predict the weight change using the latent growth model (LGM).

DESIGN AND SUBJECTS

This study used a longitudinal design. The study participants were 120 women whose body weights were measured at eight time points.

RESULTS

The adjusted mean pre-pregnancy weight was 52.57 kg. When the weight growth rate for 10-13 weeks of pregnancy and pre-pregnancy weight was set to 1, the body-weight change rate was 2.20 during the second trimester, 2.14 during the third trimester, -2.90 during the period from the third trimester to 2-3 weeks postpartum, -0.08 during the period from 2-3 weeks to 4-5 weeks postpartum, -0.37 during the period from 4-5 weeks to 11-12 weeks postpartum, and -0.65 during the period from 11-12 weeks to 24-25 weeks postpartum. On average, body weight increased 26.54% (13.95 kg) from pre-pregnancy to 36-39 weeks of pregnancy and body weight remained 6.26% (3.29 kg) higher at 24-25 weeks postpartum compare with pre-pregnancy. In terms of factors related to body weight, age was positively associated with pre-pregnancy body weight. Parity had a negative effect on the change of body weight. Women who had an increased change rate in body weight had higher newborn birth weights.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that weight change from pregnancy to postpartum followed a pattern that could be specified using the LGM approach. The women retained more than 6% of weight at 6 months postpartum compared with their pre-pregnancy weight.

Effect of breast-feeding on weight retention at 3 and 6 months postpartum: data from the North Carolina WIC Programme

OBJECTIVE

Pregnancy-related weight retention can contribute to obesity, and breast-feeding may facilitate postpartum weight loss. We investigated the effect of breast-feeding on postpartum weight retention.

DESIGN

A retrospective follow-up study of weight retention, compared in women who were fully breast-feeding, combining breast-feeding with formula-feeding (mixed feeding), or formula-feeding at 3 months (n 14 330) or 6 months (n 4922) postpartum, controlling for demographic and weight-related covariates using multiple linear regression.

SETTING

The North Carolina Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).

SUBJECTS

Participants in the North Carolina WIC Programme who delivered a baby between 1996 and 2004.

RESULTS

In covariate-adjusted analyses, there was no association between breast-feeding and weight retention at 3 months postpartum. At 6 months postpartum, as compared to formula-feeders, mean weight retention was 0·84 kg lower in mixed feeders (95 % CI 0·39, 1·29; P = 0·0002) and 1·38 kg lower in full breast-feeders (95 % CI 0·89, 1·87; P ≤ 0·0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Breast-feeding was inversely associated with weight retention at 6 months postpartum in this large, racially diverse sample of low-income women. Further, full breast-feeding had a larger protective effect than did breast-feeding combined with formula-feeding.

High-protein diet promotes a moderate postpartum weight loss in a prospective cohort of Brazilian women

OBJECTIVE

Whether a high-protein (HP) diet promotes body weight loss (BWL) when compared with a low-protein (LP) diet is still unclear. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of an HP diet on BWL during postpartum.

METHODS

A food-frequency questionnaire with 81 items was applied at 6 mo after delivery to evaluate the diet of 430 postpartum women aged 18-45 y. Body weight was measured approximately at 0.5, 2, 6, and 9 mo after delivery. Body weight loss was modeled by comparing an HP diet (> or =1.2g . kg(-1) . d(-1)) with an LP diet (<1.2g . kg(-1) . d(-1)) using mixed-effects linear regression models adjusted for energy intake, percentage of body fat at baseline, stature, age, race, smoking, and schooling.

RESULTS

Usual energy intake was higher in the HP than in the LP diet group (2623 versus 1791kcal, P<0.0001). Daily mean protein intakes were 1.54+/-0.32g . kg(-1) . d(-1) for the HP group and 0.83+/-0.20g . kg(-1) . d(-1) for the LP group. A multivariate model showed that women in the HP group lost 316+/-0.062g of body weight more per month (P<0.01) when compared with the LP group.

CONCLUSION

A reported higher protein intake may improve moderate postpartum body weight loss. Further studies should evaluate the long-term consequences of an HP diet postpartum.

A prospective study of dietary intakes and influential factors from pregnancy to postpartum on maternal weight retention in Taipei, Taiwan

Excessive gestational weight gain and postpartum weight retention are risk factors for female obesity. The present study was to examine dietary intakes and weight history from a prospective follow-up study from early pregnancy to 1 year postpartum. A total of 151 pregnant women within 20 weeks of pregnancy in Taipei, Taiwan were interviewed periodically to collect dietary and lifestyle information. The participants had an average age of 30 years and the average gestational weight gain was 14 kg, with an average daily intake of 7830 kJ (1870 kcal) in the 1 year following parturition. By bivariate analyses, maternal age, pre-pregnancy BMI and breast-feeding were not related to postpartum weight retention, but gestational weight gain had significant positive correlations (r0·54 at 6 months,r0·44 at 1 year;P < 0·05). The generalised estimating equations showed that the average weight before pregnancy, at 6 months and 1 year postpartum was 53·35 kg, 55·75 kg (weight retention 2·36 kg;P < 0·01) and 54·75 kg (weight retention 1·48 kg;P < 0·01), respectively. After controlling for age, pre-pregnancy BMI, gestational weight gain and parity, we found at 6 months that the adjusted weight retention at postpartum was 0·79 kg (P < 0·01), but at 1 year it was − 0·08 kg (P>0·05). From multivariate analyses, dietary energy intake and energy intake per kg body weight as a long-term physical activity index could explain 24 % of the variation at 6 months and 27 % of the variation at 1 year in postpartum weight retention. These results suggest that pregnant women should be advised to control gestational weight gain, decrease energy intakes after child-bearing and maintain regular exercise in order to prevent postpartum obesity.

Determinantes nutricionais e sóciodemográficos da variação de peso no pós-parto: uma revisão da literatura

Trata-se de um estudo de revisão sobre os fatores nutricionais e sócio-demográficos da variação de peso no pós-parto. Foi realizada uma busca bibliográfica nas bases de dados eletrônicas Scientific Eletronic Library On-line (SciELO), Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS) e Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE) referente a literatura publicada na última década (1997-2008). Treze artigos, um informe técnico e dois livros considerados relevantes sobre o assunto e publicados anteriormente ao ano 1997 foram citados na revisão. A revisão priorizou estudos de ensaios clínicos randomizados e de seguimento realizados com gestantes e mulheres no pós-parto. Os resultados obtidos mostram como principais fatores associados com a variação de peso no pós-parto o ganho de peso gestacional acima das recomendações do Institute of Medicine, Índice de Massa Corporal Pré-Gestacional > 25 kg/m2, dieta, tempo e intensidade do aleitamento materno e os fatores sócio-demográficos: raça negra, primiparidade, idade materna, baixa renda e baixa escolaridade. A prática regular de atividade física é recomendada como uma estratégia para evitar o ganho de peso excessivo e melhorar a perda de peso durante o pós-parto. No Brasil não existe uma estratégia nacional para prevenir o ganho de peso excessivo e garantir a adequada perda de peso nesse período. Durante o pós-parto, a maioria das ações de saúde visa basicamente garantir o aleitamento materno.

Pre-pregnancy body mass index change between pregnancies and preterm birth in the following pregnancy

Maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) may affect the risk of preterm birth. However, it is unclear how changes in BMI between pregnancies modify the risk of preterm birth in the following pregnancy. We studied this effect in the Collaborative Perinatal Project, when obesity was uncommon and the prevalence of induction of labour was low. This analysis included 1892 primiparae whose first enrolled (index) pregnancy was a singleton livebirth and the second enrolled (outcome) pregnancy was a consecutive singleton pregnancy (both pregnancies within 20-51 weeks of gestation). We used the Cox regression model to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) of preterm birth at the outcome pregnancy as a function of reduced BMI (<25(th) percentile of change) and increased BMI (>75(th) percentile), compared with stable BMI (25(th)-75(th) percentile), adjusted for pre-pregnancy BMI at the index pregnancy and other covariates. Body mass index reduction was associated with a non-significant increased risk of preterm birth, adjusted HR 1.17 [95% confidence interval 0.90, 1.53]; BMI increase had effects close to null (adjusted HR 1.08 [0.83, 1.41]). In the model with linear BMI change, each 1 kg/m(2) increase was associated with an HR of 0.96 [0.89, 1.03]. The estimates associated with a BMI reduction were higher in women whose index pregnancy ended preterm (HR 1.49 [0.90, 2.44]) and in those with BMI < 25 kg/m(2) at the index pregnancy (HR 1.30 [0.98, 1.71]). This study involved mainly low-to-normal weight women with spontaneous deliveries, and might suffer from type II error owing to small sample size. The effect of BMI change in overweight and obese women needs to be studied using contemporary data.

[Clinical breast examination during prenatal visits: analysis of coverage and associated factors in a city in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil]

The Brazilian Ministry of Health recommends that breast examination be performed along with breastfeeding orientation during the first prenatal visit. The aims of the current study were to analyze breast examination during prenatal care and describe the factors associated with insufficient coverage. A cross-sectional study was performed in Rio Grande, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, from May to July 2007. Data for women who had just given birth were recorded on a standardized questionnaire. Of 445 women, 266 (59.8%) had not undergone breast examination during prenatal care. Non-white women and those with a monthly income below the minimum wage (BRL 380.00) or with prenatal care and delivery in the public health system showed the highest probability of not having a breast examination during prenatal care. The results show the low prevalence of breast examination during prenatal care and indicate serious problems related to quality of prenatal care, besides unequal access for poor women.

The reset hypothesis: lactation and maternal metabolism

For maternal metabolism, pregnancy ends not with delivery, but with weaning. In several recent epidemiological studies, authors have reported an association between duration of breast-feeding and reduced maternal risk of metabolic disease. These findings parallel data from animal models showing favorable changes in metabolism associated with lactation. During gestation, visceral fat accumulates, and insulin resistance and lipid and triglyceride levels increase. These changes appear to reverse more quickly, and more completely, with lactation. In this article, we review animal and human studies regarding the effects of lactation on adiposity, lipid, and glucose homeostasis. We hypothesize that lactation plays an important role in "resetting" maternal metabolism after pregnancy.

Effect of infant feeding on maternal body composition

BACKGROUND

Women gain total body weight and accrue body fat during pregnancy. Breastfeeding has been suggested as an efficient means of promoting postpartum weight loss due to its high energy cost. We investigated the effect of infant feeding mode on maternal body composition.

METHODS

This study evaluated maternal weight and percent body fat changes in exclusively breastfeeding versus mixed feeding mothers during the first 12 weeks postpartum using the BOD POD. Twenty four mothers aged 19 - 42 years were studied. Participants were recruited from Athens-Clarke County and surrounding areas of the State of Georgia, USA. The study was conducted between November 2005 and December 2006.

RESULTS

Prepregnancy weight was higher in mixed feeding mothers than in exclusively breastfeeding mothers (68.4 kg vs. 61.4 kg) but the difference was not statistically significant. At 12 weeks postpartum, exclusively breastfeeding mothers had lost more total body weight than mixed feeding mothers (4.41 +/- 4.10 kg versus 2.79 +/- 3.09 kg; p = 0.072). There was no significant difference in fat weight change between the two groups (4.38 +/- 2.06 kg versus 4.17 +/- 2.63 kg). However, mixed feeding mothers lost slightly more percent body fat than exclusively breastfeeding mothers (1.90 +/- 4.18 kg versus 1.71 +/- 3.48 kg), but the difference was not statistically significant. The trend in percent body fat loss was significant among exclusively breastfeeding mothers (p = 0.034) but not mixed feeding mothers (p = 0.081). Exclusively breastfeeding mothers consumed more calories than mixed feeding mothers (1980 +/- 618 kcal versus 1541 +/- 196 kcal p = 0.08). Physical activity levels were, however, higher in mixed feeding mothers than exclusively breastfeeding mothers.

CONCLUSION

Our results provide further evidence that exclusive breastfeeding promotes greater weight loss than mixed feeding among mothers even in the early postpartum period. This suggests that there is the need to encourage mothers to exclusively breastfeed as a means of overweight and obesity prevention.

Overweight and obesity in postpartum Hispanic women

Overweight and obesity vary in prevalence among particular groups, and are especially problematic for childbearing Hispanic women. The complex interaction between physical changes associated with pregnancy, role changes accompanying birth, and family and cultural values related to childbearing are superimposed upon the underlying mechanisms that create or perpetuate obesity. In this article we review biological and behavioral research on obesity in postpartum Hispanic women to identify critical components for intervention studies focused on weight management. Recommendations are offered for health care providers and researchers.

Benefícios da amamentação para a saúde da mulher e da criança: um ensaio sobre as evidências

Este ensaio reúne uma seleção de estudos, particularmente revisões sistemáticas que têm contribuído para aumentar a compreensão sobre os benefícios do aleitamento materno para a criança e para a mulher e sua implementação. Realizou-se uma busca de artigos publicados a partir do ano 2000, sem, no entanto, deixar de lado estudos relevantes para o avanço do conhecimento publicados décadas atrás. Para a seleção dos estudos efetuou-se uma busca na Internet com base nas ferramentas disponíveis no PubMed e SciELO. Além dos aspectos para os quais há consenso, procurou-se incluir estudos sobre resultados controversos e outros que são instigantes, como os provenientes da neurobiologia. Verificam-se mudanças substanciais nas recomendações para políticas públicas em decorrência desses novos conhecimentos. Algumas investigações também têm sido realizadas com o objetivo de avaliar quais intervenções seriam mais efetivas para um aumento das práticas de amamentação. Procurou-se neste artigo dar destaque a: recomendações atuais sobre alimentação da criança pequena; importância da amamentação no início da vida; implicações do aleitamento materno para a saúde da criança; implicações do aleitamento materno para a saúde da mulher; e efetividade de algumas ações pró-amamentação.

Fatores associados à ocorrência de cesárea e aborto em mulheres selecionadas em um centro de saúde no município do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

OBJETIVOS: investigar fatores potencialmente associados à ocorrência de cesárea e aborto. MÉTODOS: foram analisados dados de uma coorte no pós-parto com 352 mulheres entre 15-45 anos. Os seguintes desfechos foram estudados: ocorrência de cesárea no último parto e ocorrência de aborto anterior à última gravidez. A análise estatística foi feita por meio de modelos de regressão logística multivariados e hierarquizados. RESULTADOS: as prevalências de cesárea e aborto foram de 36,3% e 34,0%, respectivamente. O modelo final revelou que as seguintes variáveis permaneceram estatisticamente associadas à ocorrência de cesárea: nível 1: cor de pele branca (OR=2,02; IC95%: 1,29-3,16); nível 2: ligadura (OR=19,68; IC95%: 5,77-67,15). As seguintes variáveis permane-ceram associadas à ocorrência de aborto: nível 1: idade >29 anos (OR=6,11; IC95%: 2,94-12,72), estado marital: vive em união (OR=4,22; IC95%: 2,03-8,78); solteira: (OR=3,70; IC95%: 1,59-8,61). CONCLUSÕES: a cor de pele branca e a prática de ligadura foram co-variáveis potencialmente associadas à ocorrência de cesárea, enquanto o estado marital em união ou solteira e a idade materna estiveram associadas à ocorrência de aborto, sendo maior a probabilidade para mulheres acima de 29 anos.

The association of pregnancy and the development of obesity - results of a systematic review and meta-analysis on the natural history of postpartum weight retention

OBJECTIVE

The magnitude of the contribution of childbearing to the development of obesity is not entirely understood. Published studies on postpartum weight retention focus on risk factors and clinical interventions. Pooled estimates of postpartum weight retention have not been reported. We summarized the existing evidence of the natural history of postpartum weight retention and estimated the extent of time after delivery that weight retention is attributable to pregnancy.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis of qualitatively homogeneous studies.

DATA SOURCES

Medline search of published studies between January 1995 and August 2005; bibliography of candidate studies.

REVIEW METHODS

Eligibility: Observational studies and control groups of randomized controlled trials. Independent review and data abstraction including study design, subject characteristics, women's weight and study quality by two reviewers. Meta-analysis of average postpartum weight retention at different points in time after delivery. Sensitivity analysis for study specific covariates using meta-regression.

RESULTS

Twenty-five studies describing 21 cohorts met eligibility criteria. Sixteen studies appeared homogeneous enough to be included in the meta-analysis. Average postpartum weight retention decreased continuously until 12 months postpartum (6 weeks: 2.42 (95% confidence interval (95% CI): 2.32-2.52) Body mass index (BMI), 6 months: 1.14 (95% CI: 1.04-1.25) BMI, 12 months: 0.46 (95% CI: 0.38-0.54) BMI). Postpartum weight retention was 0.46 BMI lower in studies with follow-up rate > or =80% at 6 weeks postpartum compared to studies with lower follow-up rate (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

Published studies consistently showed a decline in mean body weight within the first year postpartum. Data on body weight later than 12 months postpartum are scarce. The published evidence suggests a re-increase in body weight. As there are rather lifestyle-related than biological reasons for an increase in body weight after one year postpartum, we suggest using the term 'postpartum weight retention' exclusively within a limited period (for example, up to 12-18 months) postpartum.

Influence of Nutrition Attitudes and Motivators for Eating on Postpartum Weight Status in Low-Income New Mothers

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to identify attitudes about nutrition and their influence on weight status in low-income mothers in the first year postpartum.

DESIGN

Nutrition attitudes were assessed at 1.5, 6, and 12 months postpartum. Body weight was measured at each time point and height at 1.5 months to calculate body mass index. Nutrition attitudes at each time were compared with demographic variables and weight status.

SUBJECTS

Subjects were 340 non-Hispanic white (31.3%), non-Hispanic black (25.1%), and Hispanic (43.7%) new mothers (mean age=22.4 years) located in central Texas. Criteria for participation included good health at delivery and low income (</=185% federal poverty guideline).

STATISTICAL ANALYSES

chi(2) tests were used to compare demographic groups to categorical variables. Multivariate analysis of variance was done to investigate the effect of demographic variables on instrument subscale scores. A repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to identify significant changes over time.

RESULTS

Obese women had higher barriers to healthful eating subscale means at 1 year compared with normal and overweight subjects at 1.5 and 6 months, and had more barriers than overweight participants at 12 months. Obese individuals also had higher emotional eating subscale scores than did overweight women at 1.5 months and both normal and overweight subjects at 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Women who were obese at 1 year postpartum were more likely to perceive more barriers to healthful eating and respond more to emotional cues to eat. Health professionals could emphasize potential changes and difficulties often faced in postpartum and identify techniques to overcome these obstacles to healthful eating.

Nutrition knowledge is associated with greater weight loss in obese and overweight low-income mothers

OBJECTIVE

To examine if greater nutrition knowledge vs gains in knowledge promote more successful weight loss in low-income, overweight and obese mothers with young children.

DESIGN

A convenience sample of mothers and their children were measured for height and weight; mothers completed demographic and nutrition knowledge questionnaires pre- and post-intervention.

SUBJECTS/SETTING

Participants (N=141) were recruited from government and public health clinics and elementary schools. Inclusion criteria for mothers were: family income <200% federal poverty level; overweight/obese; and Hispanic, African-American, or white race/ethnicity.

INTERVENTION

Eight weekly weight-loss classes emphasizing diet, physical activity, and behavior modification based on Social Cognitive Theory were administered to mothers.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Improvements in maternal nutrition knowledge and weight loss.

STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED

Paired-samples t tests, repeated measures analysis of variance, analysis of covariance, Pearson correlations, and chi(2) statistics.

RESULTS

Nutrition knowledge of mothers increased in all areas. Participants with weight loss > or =2.27 kg (responders) had greater knowledge than those who did not; however, the actual net gain was similar for those who lost and did not lose weight. Weight gainers only improved in two areas on the test, whereas weight-loss responders increased knowledge in all six. Responders appeared more cognizant of diet, weight loss, and health information.

CONCLUSIONS

Weight-management programs should include a strong component of nutrition education to alleviate knowledge inequalities and promote more effective weight control. In low-income mothers, greater initial knowledge may be more predictive of weight loss than gains in knowledge during an intervention.

Food choices of low-income women during pregnancy and postpartum

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to examine dietary behavior during pregnancy and postpartum in a multiethnic sample of low-income women.

SUBJECTS

Participants were 149 Medicaid-qualified women (30% white, 24% African American, and 46% Hispanic; median age, 22 years).

DESIGN

Subjects were recruited into a longitudinal cohort design 0 to 1 days following delivery. Dietary choices during pregnancy and the first 6 months postpartum were assessed via validated food frequency questionnaires administered at 6 weeks and 6 months postpartum, respectively.

STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED

Frequencies and means were used for descriptive purposes. Paired and independent sample t tests were used for continuous variables; chi 2 and McNemar tests were used for categorical variables.

RESULTS

In all subjects, mean daily servings of grains (7.4 vs 6.2, P <.004), vegetables (2.5 vs 2.0, P <.002), and fruit (3.4 vs 1.7, P <.001) declined following childbirth, while the percentage of energy from fat (37.3% vs 38.4%, P <.023) and added sugar (14.4% vs 16.4%, P <.019) increased. Women who breastfed their infants at 6 months postpartum reported lower intakes of total fat (34.2% vs 37.9%, P <.005) during pregnancy and higher fruit (2.2 vs 1.6, P <.05) and vegetable (2.6 vs 1.8, P <.02) intakes in postpartum than those who bottle-fed. Also, a greater proportion of lactating than nonlactating women (66.7% vs 36.9%, P <.05) met recommendations for fruit intake during pregnancy.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that the transition from pregnancy to postpartum may be associated with a negative impact on dietary behavior that could compromise nutritional status in low-income women.

Position of the American Dietetic Association: Promoting and supporting breastfeeding

It is the position of the American Dietetic Association (ADA) that exclusive breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition and health protection for the first 6 months of life, and breastfeeding with complementary foods for at least 12 months is the ideal feeding pattern for infants. Breastfeeding is also a public health strategy for improving infant and child health survival, improving maternal morbidity, controlling health care costs, and conserving natural resources. ADA emphasizes the essential role of dietetics professionals in promoting and supporting breastfeeding by providing up-to-date, practical information to pregnant and postpartum women, involving family and friends in breastfeeding education and counseling, removing institutional barriers to breastfeeding, collaborating with community organizations and others who promote and support breastfeeding, and advocating for policies that position breastfeeding as the norm for infant feeding. ADA also emphasizes its own role by providing up-to-date information to the public, encouraging empirical research, providing continuing education opportunities, providing cultural sensitivity and cultural competence training to dietetics professionals, and encouraging universities to review and update undergraduate and graduate training programs.

Amamentação e crescimento infantil: um estudo longitudinal em crianças do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil, 1999/2001

Vários estudos vêm demonstrando diferenças significativas no padrão de crescimento entre crianças amamentadas ao seio e com fórmulas. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar o efeito da duração da amamentação predominante sobre o perfil antropométrico e identificar os determinantes do crescimento infantil em uma coorte de crianças brasileiras. Foram acompanhadas 479 crianças em um centro de saúde do Rio de Janeiro, através de um estudo longitudinal envolvendo quatro seguimentos: 0,5; 2; 6 e 9 meses. As variáveis dependentes foram o peso e o comprimento, coletados de acordo com procedimentos padronizados. A análise longitudinal foi desenvolvida através do modelo linear de efeitos mistos. A idade gestacional, o peso e o comprimento ao nascer mostraram associação significativa com a evolução de peso e de comprimento. Constatou-se que quanto maior a duração da amamentação predominante, maior o peso infantil. As crianças nascidas por parto cesáreo apresentaram pesos mais elevados do que aquelas nascidas por parto normal. Estes resultados reforçam a necessidade de programas que encorajem o aleitamento materno até os seis meses.

Efeito das práticas alimentares sobre o crescimento infantil

Vários fatores quer pré-natais como pós-natais podem influenciar o crescimento infantil. Nos primeiros meses de vida, a influência dos padrões alimentares é um aspecto importante para avaliar o padrão de crescimento infantil. O objetivo deste artigo é revisar os resultados divulgados na literatura e reunir informações que permitam elucidar questões referentes ao efeito das práticas alimentares sobre o crescimento infantil. É apresentada uma descrição sucinta dos determinantes do crescimento, dos estudos desenvolvidos para avaliar o efeito das práticas de alimentação sobre o crescimento infantil no primeiro ano de vida. Abordam-se ainda, uma descrição dos aspectos sobre a introdução da complementação alimentar. Os termos "breastfeeding practice", "infant growth" e "weight" foram determinados de acordo com os Medical Subjects Headings (MESH) e pesquisados na base MEDLINE. As divergências quanto ao momento de introduzir alimentos complementares e até que ponto a amamentação ao seio supre as necessidades de nutrientes no primeiro ano de vida levou a Organização Mundial da Saúde a alterar as recomendações sobre as práticas alimentares em 2001. Os estudos vêm demonstrando diferenças significativas no padrão de crescimento entre crianças amamentadas ao seio e aquelas que recebem fórmulas lácteas ou alimentos complementares.