The Summary
Researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 25 prospective observational studies involving 115,496 pregnant women to evaluate how pre-pregnancy and pregnancy diet impacts gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) risk. They found that higher intakes of animal-sourced protein and animal-sourced fats were significantly associated with an increased risk of developing GDM in a dose-response manner. Conversely, dietary fiber had a protective effect, lowering GDM risk. Total protein and vegetable fats were also linked to higher GDM risk, but without a clear dose-response relationship.
Why this is interesting
While pregnant women are often encouraged to eat plenty of protein, this study suggests that too much, especially from animal sources, might actually increase the risk of gestational diabetes. The findings reinforce standard advice to eat high-fiber diets and limit animal fats, but highlight high protein intake as a newly identified concern during pregnancy. For expecting mothers, focusing on fiber-rich plant foods while moderating animal protein and fat could be a safer strategy to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.