Relationship between preconception protein intake and gestational diabetes mellitus: The Japan Environment and Children's Study

Abstract

Aims

To investigate the relationship between preconception protein intake and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Methods

We analyzed data from the Japan Environment and Children's Study, focusing on 80,346 participants (mean age 31.3 ± 4.9 years; mean body mass index 21.2 ± 3.2 kg/m²) who delivered between 2011 and 2014. These participants had no history of diabetes mellitus, no previous diagnosis of GDM, and did not use steroids during pregnancy. Participants were categorized into five groups based on preconception protein energy ratio quintiles (Q1 and Q5 represent the lowest and highest intake, respectively). Continuous variables were compared using one-way analysis of variance or the Kruskal–Wallis test, and categorical variables using chi-square tests. Primary outcomes were GDM, early-diagnosed GDM (Ed-GDM, diagnosed at <24 weeks), and late-diagnosed GDM (Ld-GDM, diagnosed at >24 weeks). Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using logistic regression analysis with the middle quintile (Q3) as the reference.

Results

Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that using the Q3 group as the reference, the Q5 group had a higher risk of Ed-GDM (aOR 1.48, 95 % CI 1.06–2.07), whereas the Q1 group had a lower risk of Ed-GDM (aOR 0.69, 95 % CI 0.48–0.996). However, no significant differences were observed in the risk of GDM and Ld-GDM.

Conclusions

Higher preconception protein intake was associated with increased Ed-GDM risk. Further research is needed to refine dietary recommendations for preconception protein intake.