A NOVEL study led by USA-based researchers has revealed unexpected findings on how babies exposed to gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) grow during their first year of life. Contrary to previous beliefs, this new study shows that these infants tend to gain body fat more slowly than others, indicating that early growth patterns may adapt more dynamically than previously understood.
Published findings suggest that infants exposed to GDM are not necessarily predisposed to obesity, challenging long-held assumptions. Instead, these babies may benefit from closer monitoring to ensure healthy growth. “We often think that babies exposed to gestational diabetes will automatically be at higher risk for childhood obesity, but our findings show a more complex picture,” commented the authors. “While these infants are born with more body fat, many seem to naturally balance out over time.”
The study analysed data from 198 infants, half of whom were exposed to GDM during pregnancy. Researchers tracked their weight, length, and body fat from birth through their first year, uncovering three distinct growth patterns. Babies exposed to GDM had higher body fat at birth but experienced slower fat accumulation as they grew, exhibiting what researchers call “catch-down growth.”
GDM affects approximately 8.3% of pregnancies in the United States, with cases rising significantly in recent decades. The condition can lead to complications during pregnancy and increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes for mothers later in life. Babies exposed to GDM often have higher birth weights and fat percentages, but this new research suggests they may follow a more adaptable growth trajectory than previously thought.
“Surprisingly, GDM-exposed infants were more likely to experience slower fat gain while maintaining equivalent lean body mass,” said the team. The findings have highlighted the importance of sensitive early-life body composition measurements, which could improve monitoring and intervention strategies.
This research has opened a door to further studies on the mechanisms driving these growth patterns and their implications for long-term health.
Reference
Rickman RR et al. Infant body composition trajectories differ by in utero exposure to gestational diabetes mellitus: a prospective cohort from birth to 12 months. Am J Clin Nutr. 2024;DOI:10.1016/j.ajcnut.2024.10.020.
