The Effect of Maternal Diet Restriction on Pregnancy Outcome

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of intermittent maternal fasting on pregnancy outcome. The course and outcome of 168 fasted pregnant women were reviewed. A total of 168 fasted and 156 control pregnant women were studied. The incidence of gestational diabetes (GDM) was significantly higher in the fasted group than in the control group ( p = 0.001). Labor was induced in 26 of 168 women (15.5%) in the fasted group compared with 11 of 156 women (7.1%) in the control group ( p = 0.004). The cesarean section rate was significantly higher in the fasted group ( p = 0.01). There was no difference in Apgar score at 1 and 5 minutes between the two groups. Admission to the special care baby unit (SCBU) was significantly more frequent in the fasted group than the control group ( p = 0.001). Maternal diet restriction is associated with an increased risk of GDM and induction of labor. The frequency of neonatal admission to SCBU is increased.

Diet restriction in Ramadan and the effect of fasting on glucose levels in pregnancy

“…These changes include a significant fall in glucose, insulin, lactate, and creatinine levels, and a rise in triglyceride, non-esterified fatty acid, and 3-hydroxybutyrate levels [2]. Prentice et al [1] related the metabolic changes observed in pregnant women who fast during Ramadan to an accelerated starvation phenomenon.…”

“…Prentice et al [1] reported a higher rate of fetal loss and low birth weight, and increased frequency of neonatal admission to the special care baby unit in women observing Ramadan. Maternal diet restriction is associated with an increased maternal risk of gestational diabetes mellitus and induction of labor [2,3], The reason for this association with an adverse outcome is not completely clear.…”

The persistent effects of in utero nutrition shocks over the life cycle: Evidence from Ramadan fasting

“…Cross, Eminson and Wharton (1990) found a higher frequency of low birth weight among fasters during the second trimester of pregnancy, although there were no significant effects on mean birth weight. Malhotra et al (1989) and Mirghani and Hamud (2006) found no effects on birth weight and APGAR (Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration) scores, even though they detected substantial biochemical changes. In the same study, Mirghani and Hamud (2006) find that there is a higher incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), induced labor, higher cesarean section rates as well as higher admission to the special care baby unit (SCBU) among the fasting group versus the control group.…”

Fasting in pregnancy: A survey of beliefs and manners of Muslim women about Ramadan fasting

“…In some studies, no significant adverse effect of fasting on maternal or fetal health has been reported. [11][12][13][14][15] However, some studies have shown the negative effects of mother's fasting on maternal and fetal health. The risk of hyperemesis gravidarum in fasting-women increased.…”