A high dietary fiber randomized clinical trial reduces gestational weight gain, fat accrual, and postpartum weight retention

Abstract

Background Interventions to prevent excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) have had limited success This pilot study examined the effectiveness of a single goal (SG) high dietary fiber intervention to prevent excessive GWG.Methods Twelve weekly lessons focused on consuming a high fiber diet (≥30 g/day). Snacks containing 10-12 g of dietary fiber were given for the first six weeks only. Body composition was measured at baseline and at the end of the intervention. At one-year postpartum, body weight retention and dietary practices were assessed.Results The SG group increased fiber intake during the study (32 g/day at 6 weeks, 27 g/day at 12 weeks), whereas the UC group did not (~17 g/day). No differences were found for the proportion of women classified as excessive gainers. During the intervention, the SG group gained less body weight (-4.1 kg) and less fat mass (-2.8 kg) (p<0.05). At one year postpartum, the SG group retained less weight, though non-significant (0.35 vs. 4.4 kg, respectively; p=0.32), and reported trying to currently eat high fiber foods.Conclusion The SG intervention resulted in less weight gain, fat accrual, and weight retention at one year postpartum. A residual intervention effect was detected postpartum with the participants reporting continued efforts to consume a high fiber diet.