Poor birth outcomes such as low birth weight, low birth length and short gestational age, are public health concern issues in South Africa (SA). This study utilized structural equation modeling (SEM) to explore how nutritional and social factors contribute to favorable fetal growth conditions (FFGC) in pregnant women living with and without human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), in the Free State Province of SA. Sociodemographic characteristics, stress, health and nutrition-related information, and birth outcomes data were collected and analyzed from a subsample of 305 women enrolled in a cohort study from 2018–2020. Descriptive statistics were analyzed in R version 4.1.2 and SEM was conducted in Lavaan version 0.6–5. Higher gestational body mass index (GBMI) and income levels were associated with higher FFGC (p < 0.05). Household incomes were positively associated with dietary micronutrient quality (p = 0.002), GBMI (p = 0.012) and food security (p = 0.001). Low incomes (p = 0.004) and food insecurity (p < 0.001) were associated with higher stress, while social support was positively associated with food security status (p = 0.008). These findings highlight the complex interconnections between the social and nutritional factors that are associated with fetal growth conditions. Multisectoral community-based programs may be a useful strategy to address these challenges.

This study aimed to evaluate the associations of dietary changes with risk factors of type 2 diabetes among older populations in Sharpeville, South Africa. A 24 h recall assessment, dietary diversity, and anthropometrics were measured. Blood samples were collected to assess fasting glucose and insulin. Regression analysis was performed using SPSS version 20. The mean BMI of the total of 103 participants was 30.63 kg/m² at baseline and 29.66 kg/m² at follow-up. Significantly higher BMI levels were reported in women than men both at baseline (p = 0.003) and follow-up (p = 0.009). Waist circumference significantly decreased from 96.20 cm to 93.16 cm (p = 0.046). The mean levels of HOMA-B significantly increased from 88.99 to 111.19 (p = 0.021). BMI was positively associated with intakes of total energy (p = 0.22), polyunsaturated fatty acids (p = 0.050), and cholesterol (p = 0.006). Waist circumference was strongly associated with total energy (p = 0.048), polyunsaturated fatty acids (p = 0.037), trans fatty acids (p = 0.039), and cholesterol (p = 0.000). HOMA-IR and HOMA-B were associated with intakes of fat (HOMA-IR: p = 0.013; HOMA-B: p = 0.040) and monounsaturated fatty acids (HOMA-IR: p = 0.003; HOMA-B: p = 0.040).