(P10-072-24) Postpartum Bean Consumption and Maternal Weight Outcomes

Objectives: We assessed the associations between postpartum bean consumption and maternal weight outcomes from a U.S. national cohort.

Methods: We conducted a secondary data analysis of 1,362 U.S. mothers from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II. These mothers were followed throughout their pregnancy and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months and 6 years postpartum. At follow-up visits, frequency and amount of bean consumption were approximated using a food frequency questionnaire. Mothers also reported postpartum outcomes, heights, and weights, which allowed for a calculation of postpartum weight retention and a more accurate determination of overweight and obesity status using body mass index. Associations between maternal bean consumption and risk of birth outcomes were examined using multivariable logistic and linear regression models.

Results: Compared to non-consumers, mothers who consumed dried beans 1 time per week or more had a lower risk of being overweight or obese at 3 months (Odds Ratio [OR]=0.46, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: [0.24-0.88]) and 9 months postpartum (OR=0.45, CI: [0.22-0.92]). For every 1-cup/week increment of dried bean consumption, mothers had a lower risk of being overweight or obese at 3 months postpartum (OR=0.68, CI: [0.47-0.99]). Mothers who consumed chili 2-3 times per month or more had a higher risk of obesity at 12 months postpartum when compared to mothers who consumed chili 1 time per month (OR=2.18, CI: [1.00-4.74]). Every 1-cup/week increment of chili consumption was associated with a higher risk of obesity at 6 months (OR=1.52, CI: [1.01-2.29]) and 9 months postpartum (OR=1.51, CI: [1.04-2.21]). However, mothers who consumed chili 2-3 times per month or more had a lower risk of obesity at 6 years postpartum compared to non-consumers of chili (OR=0.50, CI:[0.25-0.99]). Risks of overweight and/or obesity status did not differ by bean soup consumption.

Conclusions: High consumption of dried beans postpartum may be linked with a lower risk of being overweight or obese. Consumption of chili postpartum showed mixed results regarding risk of obesity depending on the frequency of consumption and follow-up time.

Funding Sources: The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)