In a nutshell
This article investigated the effect of weight change after giving birth on cardiometabolic outcomes in women with gestational diabetes (GDM). The authors concluded that weight loss and the prevention of further weight gain is beneficial to these women.
Some background
GDM is diabetes that develops during pregnancy. Patients are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D) after having GDM. Weight loss after pregnancy is known to help reduce the risk of developing T2D. However, the effects of this weight loss on cardiometabolic outcomes are not known. Cardiometabolic outcomes include long-term glucose control (HbA1c levels), cholesterol and triglyceride levels (fats in the blood).
Methods & findings
This study involved 206 patients. They were randomly assigned to three groups. Group weight loss included 74 patients who lost more than 2 kg after giving birth. Group weight stable included 74 patients who had a stable weight. Group weight gain had 58 women who gained more than 2 kg. The follow-up was 1 year.
Group weight loss had a decrease in HbA1c compared with group weight gain. Group weight loss also had a greater decrease in total cholesterol and bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein; LDL) than the other 2 groups. Group weight gain had a greater increase in triglyceride levels compared with the other groups.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that weight loss after giving birth in women with a history of GDM was associated with improvements in cardiometabolic outcomes.
The fine print
This study was based on medical records from another study. Information might be missing. This might influence the results.
Published By :
Nutrients
Date :
Apr 24, 2019
