After gestational diabetes...?

I was told that I had gestational diabetes when I was pregnant. My doctor had me on a 140 carbs/day diet in order to control it, which it did--in fact I lost 6 pounds and they made me go up to 180 carbs/day. I had my baby 2 months ago and my doctor told me that I would need to lose weight so that I could lower my chances of getting full blown diabetes. I exercise everyday and I try to eat a balanced diet but I think my body still thinks I'm in pregnant mode because I haven't lost any weight yet. I should be losing between 15-20 pounds. Should I do a low carb diet again? If so, how many per day should I eat? Or is there a better diet out there? We are in between insurances right now so I'm not able to go to the dr. right now to ask, so I just need some opinions from people who know what they're talking about.

First, your doctor is absolutely right. Gestational diabetes is a strong indicator that you may get diabetes, although it is not certain and your actions may prevent or delay it. You're giving yourself a great gift by staying on top of this.

I recommend sticking to a healthy, balanced diet and staying focused on exercise. You are more likely to lose weight if you make long-term lifestyle adjustments than by embracing a fad diet you can't stand. My fiance wanted to lose weight two years ago and did a cleanse. She lost 20 pounds in a month! She was thrilled and told all of her friends. They invested $150 in this miracle cleanse. Unfortunately, no one else saw results. It turns out my fiance had type 1 diabetes instead! The cleanse may make you go to the bathroom 20 times a day (and therefore avoid eating), but it won't cause real or sustained weight loss.

I think the key to your success is a balanced diet with plenty of exercise. Studies have shown that the body needs at least 120 carbs a day for proper brain function, so don't go below that. Then make sure you're exercising for at least a half hour four days a week. If you're not sweating, you need to push harder.

If you can keep that up, I'm confident you'll lose weight. It make take six months to get back to your target, but that's okay. You DID just have a baby (congratulations!) and your body isn't going to go back to its old ways right away. Have patience with your self, stay positive, and remember that you're planning for long-term health not a two-month rapid drop.