Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
18 January 2018 12:01
It is suggested that breastfeeding can cut diabetes risk
Mothers who breastfeed for at least six months cut the risk of diabetes during their child-bearing years by half, a study has found.
Scientists analysed 30 years' worth of data from a major US investigation of heart disease risk factors.
About 5,000 adults aged 18 to 30 joined the coronary artery risk development in young adults (Cardia) study between 1985 and 1986.
Strong association
Women who breastfed for six months or more were 47% less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those who chose not to breastfeed, the researchers found.
Mothers breastfeeding for six months or less reduced their risk of diabetes by a quarter.
Lead investigator Dr Erica Gunderson, from the US care provider Kaiser Perminante, said: "We found a very strong association between breastfeeding duration and lower risk of developing diabetes, even after accounting for all possible confounding risk factors."
Diabetes patients heading abroad may want to consider securing travel insurance for existing medical conditions before jetting off.
Growing evidence
The findings, published in the journal Jama Internal Medicine, add to growing evidence that breastfeeding has protective effects for both mothers and their babies.
Previous research has shown that it lowers a mother's risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
Dr Gunderson added: "The incidence of diabetes decreased in a graded manner as breastfeeding duration increased, regardless of race, gestational diabetes, lifestyle behaviours, body size, and other metabolic risk factors measured before pregnancy, implying the possibility that the underlying mechanism may be biological."
Hormones associated with breastfeeding may have an effect on the pancreatic cells that blood insulin levels, the scientists believe.
17 May 2019
What makes the Monaco Grand Prix so special? From a royal guestlist to a challenging circuit, we take a look at why the Monte Carlo Formula 1 race is so prestigious...
[more...]
15 May 2019
Get inspired for a summer of music, travel and adventure with our guide to some of the best music festivals around Europe.
07 May 2019
Thinking of visiting Spain? There are some excellent reasons to explore the country this spring and summer, from football finals to eating snails - so don't miss out!
Want to learn a new language without the hassle of going to classes? Check out our guide to the best free apps on the market and get yourself holiday-ready in no time.
03 May 2019
Why are there two bank holidays in May? Why do we celebrate May Day? These questions and more are answered in our look at the origins of the May bank holidays...
30 April 2019
Experience the magic of Matera! The 2019 European Capital of Culture, Southern Italy's famous ancient city of caves is the perfect place for a weekend away.
Get inspired for a last-minute getaway this bank holiday weekend! We explore five alternative European city break destinations perfect for a weekend away.
18 April 2019
How much do you know about Spain? Read up on some fascinating facts about Spain and learn more about magical mice, liquid gold and big pay-outs.
16 April 2019
Keen to see first-hand who gets crowned champions of Europe? Europe's biggest football match takes place in Madrid: here's your guide to everything you need to know.
Going away with your children? Beat the stress of travelling with your family with these great travel tips. Here's what you need to know if you're travelling with kids this Easter.
Heading to Madrid? Here's our guide to six must-see places you should visit in the Spanish capital, from food markets to fine art and plenty in between.
10 April 2019
Experience the magic of Madrid's Fiesta de San Isidro 2019! Discover where to stay, what to eat and what to see as you explore one of Spain's greatest festivals.