The Effect of Maternal Diet on Neonatal Jaundice: A Case-Control Study

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the influence of dietary heat intensity in maternal diets on the incidence of neonatal jaundice. Specifically, we examine whether maternal consumption of "dietary heat intensity" foods affects neonatal bilirubin levels, while controlling for potential demographic and obstetric confounding factors. Methods: This retrospective case-control study was conducted between October 2023 and September 2024. The study population consisted of mothers and their newborns attending healthcare centers in Alborz Province, Iran. Based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 152 newborns were enrolled, comprising 75 non-jaundiced and 77 jaundiced infants. Data were collected using an information-gathering form and a food frequency questionnaire. A total bilirubin level of ≥5 mg/dL was defined as the threshold for jaundice. The collected data were subsequently analyzed using SPSSv16 software. Results: Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between the two groups in several variables, including the number of pregnancies, delivery type, infant birth weight, gestational age, infant nutrition type, use of herbal medications in infants, and maternal age. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated a significant association between neonatal bilirubin levels and maternal consumption of "dietary heat intensity" foods, particularly warm-classified carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables. Conclusion: The study results demonstrated that increased maternal consumption of hot-nature foods was significantly correlated with elevated bilirubin levels, suggesting a potential influence of maternal diet on neonatal jaundice incidence.

Subject