In February of 2018, the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism reported on a trial of a lifestyle intervention that helped women who had a history of Gestational diabetes or pregnancy-related diabetes, prevent developing Type 2 diabetes down the track. Scientists at Helsinki University and various other research facilities in Finland found a group of women receiving a diet and physical activity intervention dramatically reduced their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

A total of 200 women with a history of Gestational diabetes in an earlier pregnancy or with a body mass index (BMI) of at least 30 kg/meter squared were divided into two groups…

• one group received the intervention, while the other
• team was given just the usual care.

Specially trained Finnish nurses provided counseling to the pregnant women during their…

• first, second, and third three months of their pregnancy, and
• 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months after the birth of their baby.

All the participants were advised on the Nordic diet plan and at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week…

• the group of women receiving the intervention developed Type 2 diabetes at a rate of 2.7 percent, in contrast to
• the group of women receiving the usual care alone, who developed full-blown diabetes at a rate of 13.3 percent,

during the first year after giving birth. From these results, the researchers concluded their lifestyle intervention had cut down the risk of the women developing Type 2 diabetes during the first 12 months after delivery.

Pregnant women who develop Gestational diabetes have a 7 percent risk of developing Type 2 diabetes within the following 5 to 10 years. After being diagnosed with diabetes during their pregnancy, the mother’s blood sugar levels usually return to a normal range about 6 to 12 weeks after delivery. They should be tested for fasting blood sugar at that time and every 3 years afterward.

Breastfeeding helps to lower weight and insulin resistance, the cause of Type 2 diabetes, so breastfeeding might be helpful in preventing the development of Type 2 diabetes in the ensuing years. More research is needed. Certainly breastfeeding is a healthy practice for mother and baby.

Vegan, vegetarian, and portion-controlled diet plans are all known to lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Healthful foods…

• control weight,
• help raise insulin sensitivity,
• provide nutrients, and
• reduce cholesterol and blood fats.

Regular exercise is also suitable for maintaining a healthy weight, lowering insulin resistance, and lowering cholesterol and blood fats. Mothers who have suffered Gestational diabetes need to plan their lifestyles with the assistance of their doctor or midwife.