Planetary Health Diet tied to Lower Heart Attack Risk and Better Weight Control in Women with Gestational Diabetes: JAMA
A cohort study published in *JAMA Network Open* has revealed that women with a history of gestational diabetes who adhered more closely to the Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI) had a lower risk of myocardial infarction and better long-term weight management. The findings emphasize the value of sustainable dietary patterns not only for environmental benefit but also for reducing cardiometabolic risk among women vulnerable to future chronic disease.
Researchers analyzed dietary patterns and health outcomes among women previously diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Those with higher PHDI scores—reflecting diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and plant-based proteins with limited red meat and processed food—had a substantially lower likelihood of heart attack and improved weight regulation after pregnancy. The results suggest that dietary quality plays a critical role in preventing the transition from gestational diabetes to type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Importantly, this link persisted even after accounting for age, lifestyle, and other health factors, underscoring the independent benefit of dietary adherence.
The authors highlighted that promoting adherence to the Planetary Health Diet could serve as a dual strategy—supporting both human health and environmental sustainability. For women with gestational diabetes, adopting this approach postpartum could aid in weight stabilization, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the long-term risk of cardiovascular complications. The study supports the inclusion of structured nutritional guidance in postnatal care to enhance long-term cardiometabolic outcomes.
Keywords: Planetary Health Diet, gestational diabetes, myocardial infarction, cardiovascular risk, postpartum health, type 2 diabetes, JAMA Network Open.
Reference:
Li, S., Tobias, D. K., Chen, M., Rimm, E. B., Hu, F. B., & Bao, W. (2025). *Adherence to the Planetary Health Diet and risk of myocardial infarction and weight change among women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus.* *JAMA Network Open, 8*(10), e2841065. [https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.41065](https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.41065)
