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Maternal weight gain linked to offspring obesity
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CHICAGO — Gestational weight gain has been shown to increase the risk for offspring obesity, according to results of the EPOCH study presented here at the ADA Scientific Sessions.
Although prior studies have indicated that maternal obesity may increase the risk for offspring obesity, whether gestational weight gain influences that risk was unknown. The data from 392 sets of mothers and their offspring indicate that gestational weight gain vs. pre-pregnancy BMI was associated with poorer childhood outcomes.
Maternal pre-pregnancy BMI was compared with weight measurements throughout pregnancy to categorize their gestational weight gain as either adequate or excessive, as defined by the 2009 criteria from the Institute of Medicine. BMI, waist circumference, subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue, HDL-cholesterol and triglyceride levels were measured in the children during a research visit (average age: 10.6 years).
According to pre-pregnancy data, 61% of overweight or obese women exceeded gestational weight gain recommendations, compared with 35% of normal weight mothers pre-pregnancy (P<0.01).
High pre-pregnancy BMI and excessive gestational weight gain in mothers was associated with worse outcomes in offspring. However, mothers with high pre-pregnancy BMI yet adequate gestational weight gain had less of an impact on offspring outcomes (P<0.1).
“Our findings lend support for pregnancy interventions aiming at controlling GWG (gestational weight gain) to prevent childhood obesity,” researchers wrote. – by Alexandra Todak
For more information:
Landsbaugh JR. #76-OR. Presented at: ADA Scientific Sessions; June 21-25, 2013; Chicago.
Disclosure: Landsbaugh reports no relevant financial disclosures.