A study produced by researchers based at the University of Manchester, has revealed that mums who are dieting at the time of conception may increase the risk of their child being obese or developing diabetes. This conclusion has been reached following a study on sheep, but the scientists believe that the same results would be applicable to humans.

According to the researchers, when a ewe conceived during a time when it received less food, the lambs were born with DNA structures that were altered. This difference was concentrated in the area of the brain which relates to glucose levels and intake of food. The study was led by Professor Anne White, who believes that the results of the study indicate a connection between a mother who is dieting at the time of conception and an increased risk of child obesity later on. Professor White said:

“This is not an inherited change in the genes but a change in the structure of the DNA that affects the genes, and therefore much more unusual. What is significant is that the changes we have found are in genes that control food intake and glucose levels and alterations in these genes may lead to obesity and diabetes.”

The study has been published in the Journal of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, with work contributed by colleagues in Canada and New Zealand. Separate research indicates the possibility of a new trial, to give pregnant mums who are obese in the UK anti-diabetes medication which may stop babies being overweight at birth.