Association of gestational diabetes with child feeding practices: A secondary analysis using data from mother-child dyads in the deep south.

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to examine whether mothers with prior gestational diabetes (GDM) used different feeding practices for their children compared to those without prior GDM. We hypothesized that mothers with prior GDM would express a greater concern for their child's weight, and greater monitoring and restrictive feeding practices compared to non-diabetic mothers.

METHODS

Data for this secondary analysis came from studies examining body composition and metabolism in children (aged 4-10 years) born to women with (N = 41) and without (N = 71) GDM. A Child Feeding Questionnaire (CFQ) was used to assess maternal perception of the child's weight and her feeding practices. Analysis of covariance was used to assess group differences in feeding practices, after adjusting for parent study code, maternal education, child BMI-z, and maternal age.

RESULTS

In fully adjusted models, mothers with prior GDM did not express greater concern about their children's body weight as compared to those without prior GDM (P = 0.50). Restriction and pressure to eat also did not differ by group, and women with prior GDM reported less monitoring of their children's intake as compared to those without prior GDM (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

There is no evidence from this study that women with prior GDM are more concerned about their children's body weight or endorse more restrictive feeding practices than do those without prior GDM. Future research should investigate whether women with prior GDM are aware that their children have greater risk for obesity and comorbid health problems, and develop interventions to support parents in efforts to mitigate this risk.