Using Twizzlers to screen for gestational diabetes

Strawberry Candy Twists as an Alternative Screen for Gestational Diabetes: A Prospective Trial

Not applicable Interventional Baylor College of Medicine · NCT02610179

This study is testing if eating 10 Twizzlers can be a good way to check for gestational diabetes in pregnant women, instead of the usual sugary drink.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment617 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 64 Years
SexFemale
SponsorBaylor College of Medicine Academic / other
Locations1 site (Houston, Texas)
Trial IDNCT02610179 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This prospective trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of consuming 10 Twizzlers as an alternative to the standard 50 gram glucola beverage for screening gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in pregnant women. Participants will be recruited from the Harris Health System Obstetrics Clinics and will have their blood glucose levels measured one hour after consuming the Twizzlers. The study will compare the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values of the Twizzlers challenge against the glucola beverage, providing insights into a potentially cost-effective screening method for GDM. The trial will also assess the need for follow-up glucose tolerance tests based on the results of the screenings.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are pregnant women between 24 to 28 weeks of gestation who are willing to participate.

Not a fit: Patients with known Type I or Type II diabetes, those on corticosteroids, or those with a previous high glucola screening result will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a more palatable and cost-effective method for screening gestational diabetes, improving patient compliance and outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of alternative screening methods for gestational diabetes is not widely tested, this approach is novel and could provide new insights into effective screening practices.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant
* 24 to 28 weeks gestation
* Singleton or twin or triplet gestation
* Willing to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* Known Type II DM
* Known Type I DM
* On oral or injectable corticosteroids
* 50 gram glucola beverage GCT of greater than or equal to 190 mg/dl

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.