In a nutshell
This study examined the effect of a low carbohydrate diet on the risk of type 2 diabetes in women who have had gestational diabetes.
Some background
Women who have gestational diabetes are 7 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes (T2D) compared to pregnant women who have not had gestational diabetes. Regular exercise can reduce this risk in women who have had gestational diabetes. It is recommended that women also adopt a low carbohydrate diet (LCD) in order to reduce this risk. However, the source of protein and fat in the LCD is important. High protein and fat from animal sources has been associated with a higher risk of T2D. It is not known whether an LCD high in protein and fat from animal sources can increase the risk of T2D in women with a previous history of gestational diabetes.
Methods & findings
This study aimed to determine the risk of T2D in women who have a previous history of gestational diabetes and have been on an LCD.
This study involved 4502 women with a previous history of gestational diabetes. Participants were followed over 10 years. Participants completed questionnaires every 4 years to record their diet.
722 cases of T2D were reported during the follow-up period of 10 years. Overall, an LCD increased the risk of developing T2D by 36%. An LCD high in protein and fat from animal sources increased the risk of developing T2D by 40%. However, an LCD high in protein and fat from vegetable sources did not increase the risk of T2D.
The bottom line
This study concluded that a low carbohydrate diet high in protein and fat from animal sources can increase the risk of T2D in women with a history of gestational diabetes.
The fine print
This study only included Caucasian American women. Therefore, it is not known whether these results would also be seen individuals of another race.
What’s next?
Consult your physician regarding the risks and benefits of a low carbohydrate diet.
Published By :
Diabetes Care
Date :
Nov 17, 2015
