Relation between total Iron intake and gestational diabetes: a cohort study

Introduction: Gestational diabetes is a common problem in pregnancy that affects about 7% of pregnancies. The high intake of iron intake is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in the general population. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between total iron intake (diet and supplement) and gestational diabetes. Methods: This is a one-year prospective cohort study. 120 pregnant women referred to rural health centers in Bandar Abbas, Hormozgan, Iran were enrolled in the study. The data were collected using a checklist, food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) questionnaire for measurement of iron intake through food. Demographic data was presented as mean±SD or number (%) and final results were presented with Odds Ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval. Results: The findings showed that hemoglobin level in 6-10 (OR: 2.62 CI: 1.42-4.39) and 24 to 28 weeks (OR: 2.9 CI: 1.43-4.02), the amount of iron intake from the beginning of the pregnancy from 6 to 10 (OR: 2.81 CI: 1.28-3.98) and 16-20 weeks of pregnancy (OR: 2.94 CI: 1.35-5.43) as well as, the amount of iron supplemental ingestion (OR: 2.83 CI: 1.39-4.54) are  the most important predictors of GDM. Conclusion: According to the findings of this study and the current national guidelines for the administration of routine iron to all pregnant women, increasing the level of iron by supplement and subsequent increased risk of GDM should be more considered.