Another study has found that the health of the mother significantly impacts birthweight in newborns. Previous studies have shown that very high birthweights, greater than 10 pounds, are associated with increased risk for obesity and diabetes in adulthood.
A British study was published last month in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism investigating the relationship between a mothers fitness level and body composition with her infants birth weight. A total of 448 women were enrolled prior to pregnancy and followed until delivery.
Each of the women recorded diet and lifestyle habits before and throughout the pregnancy. The researchers also recorded weight, height, and body composition. Birthweight was measured in infants shortly after birth.
They found that women who were less fit, as measured by speed of walking, had larger babies. Women with a greater percentage of body fat also had babies with more body fat compared to lean women.
Babies born to mothers who have poor weight gain also suffer, with low birth weight. A finding not related to obesity later in life, but still significantly effects long term health.
Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on March 16, 2007 02:24 PM
