Gestational diabetes mellitus is associated with higher urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin and serum TNF-α levels despite increased consumption of tryptophan-rich foods
In a cross-sectional study of 34 women with GDM and 18 with normal-risk pregnancies, those with GDM reported higher consumption of tryptophan-rich foods (especially milk/dairy and fruits) yet had significantly higher urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (p=0.002) and serum TNF-α levels (p=0.023). Multivariable models confirmed GDM remained associated with higher melatonin metabolite levels, while TNF-α was linked to maternal characteristics and interactions.
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Gestational diabetes mellitus is associated with higher urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin and serum TNF-α levels despite increased consumption of tryptophan-rich foods The current body of evidence comprises 1 study. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 32/100 (low).
The Claim
Gestational diabetes mellitus is associated with higher urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin and serum TNF-α levels despite increased consumption of tryptophan-rich foods
This conclusion is most relevant to: Pregnant women (34 with gestational diabetes mellitus, 18 with normal-risk pregnancies).
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Pregnant Women With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and High Consumption of Tryptophan-Rich Foods Show Increased Levels of 6-Sulfatoxymelatonin in Urine. (Journal of pregnancy, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸GDM induces metabolic and inflammatory alterations
- ▸These alterations may influence tryptophan metabolism and melatonin synthesis
- ▸Higher consumption of tryptophan-rich foods provides substrate for melatonin production
- ▸Result: Elevated urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin and serum TNF-α in GDM group
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸Pregnant women (34 with gestational diabetes mellitus, 18 with normal-risk pregnancies)
Recommended Dose
N/A
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Cross-sectional design prevents causal inference
- ▸Small sample size (n=52 total) limits generalizability
- ▸Dietary assessment via FFQ may have recall bias
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 6-sulfatoxymelatonin?▼
It is the primary urinary metabolite of melatonin, used as a biomarker for melatonin production in the body.
Why might GDM increase melatonin levels despite higher tryptophan intake?▼
GDM is associated with metabolic and inflammatory changes that may alter tryptophan metabolism and melatonin synthesis, potentially leading to higher melatonin metabolite levels even with increased dietary precursor intake.
What was the role of TNF-α in this study?▼
TNF-α is an inflammatory marker; the study found higher serum levels in GDM women, suggesting an inflammatory component associated with the condition.
Were sleep quality and other confounders adjusted for?▼
Yes, the generalized linear models adjusted for maternal age, BMI, gestational age, and sleep quality.
References
- 1.Coltro DB, de Oliveira Mateus J, de Oliveira Ferreira I, Goettert MI, Costella AP, da Silva GL, Torres ILS, da Silva AA, Laste G. “Pregnant Women With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and High Consumption of Tryptophan-Rich Foods Show Increased Levels of 6-Sulfatoxymelatonin in Urine..” Journal of pregnancy, 2026. PMID: 42427282 DOI: 10.1155/jp/4762066