How maternal blood sugar levels affect breast milk and child growth

The GROWTH Study, Glycemia Range and Offspring Weight and adiposity in response To Human milk

NIH-funded research Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago · NIH-11011370

This study looks at how the sugar levels in a pregnant mom's blood can affect the nutrients in her breast milk and how that might impact her baby's growth and health, especially for moms dealing with conditions like gestational diabetes or obesity.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLurie Children's Hospital of Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11011370 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the levels of sugar in a mother's blood during pregnancy influence the composition of her breast milk and, consequently, the growth and development of her child. It focuses on understanding the relationship between maternal metabolic health, particularly conditions like gestational diabetes and obesity, and the nutrients present in breast milk. By analyzing the variations in breast milk composition, the study aims to identify potential interventions that could improve health outcomes for children exposed to adverse maternal conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women, particularly those with gestational diabetes or obesity, and their infants up to two years old.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or whose children are older than two years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved nutritional guidelines for breastfeeding mothers, ultimately enhancing the health and development of their children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that maternal health significantly impacts infant development, suggesting that this study's approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.