5:2 diet: a good choice for gestational diabetes

Now, a new study from the University of South Australia shows that the popular 5:2 or intermittent fasting diet is as effective as the traditional energy-restricted diet, giving women greater choice and flexibility when losing weight

The 5:2 diet allows five days a week to have a normal diet, and there are two days a week to strictly restrict calorie intake, which is contrary to the typical daily diet that requires moderate energy restriction

Globally, one in five pregnant women is affected by gestational diabetes, and these women are 10 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes in their later lives

The lead researcher of the study, Dr.

Dr Gray said: "Gestational diabetes is the fastest growing type of diabetes in Australia, affecting 15% of pregnant women

"Healthy eating and regular physical exercise are recommended to manage gestational diabetes, and continuous energy-restricted diets — or diets that reduce calories by 25% to 30% — are the most common strategies for weight loss and diabetes prevention

However, the problem is that new mothers tend to put themselves last-they are struggling to cope with fatigue and family responsibilities-so when it comes to weight loss, many people find it difficult to stick to a low-calorie diet

The 5:2 diet may provide a less overwhelming option

"Our research shows that for women with gestational diabetes, the 5:2 diet is as effective as a continuous energy-restricted diet in terms of weight loss, which is good because it provides women with more choices and control

"Of course, women should seek advice from health professionals before starting this diet to make sure it is suitable for them

The study investigated the effects of a 5:2 diet (five days of normal diet, 500 calories for two days) and a continuous energy-restricted diet (1,500 calories per day) on the weight loss and diabetes risk indicators of women previously diagnosed with gestational diabetes

Journal Reference :

1. Kristy L Gray, Peter M Clifton, Jennifer B Keogh.