Study: Mediterranean Diet Lowers Risk of Type 2 Diabetes in Non-Mediterranean Regions

Study Shows Mediterranean Diet May Lower Risk of Type 2 Diabetes in Non-Mediterranean Regions

A new study published in Nutrition Journal has found that following a Mediterranean diet eating pattern may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in people from non-Mediterranean regions. The study, conducted in China, drew data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey and included 12,575 participants.

Researchers used a Mediterranean diet adherence scale to score participants’ diets based on the intake of vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, cereals, fish, dairy products, meat, and alcohol. After analyzing the data and adjusting for demographic information, researchers found that those with a higher Mediterranean diet score were 17% less likely to develop diabetes.

Specifically, higher intake of fruits, fish, and nuts was associated with a lower risk of new-onset diabetes. This finding is significant as diabetes is a growing global health concern, with over half a billion people worldwide living with type 2 diabetes.

The study suggests that incorporating foods from the Mediterranean diet, such as fruits, nuts, and fish, into daily meals and snacks could offer protection against diabetes. Making small changes to eating habits, such as adding a serving of nuts to oatmeal or enjoying fish tacos for dinner, can have a positive impact on health.

In conclusion, the Mediterranean diet may offer a practical and effective way to reduce the risk of diabetes in non-Mediterranean regions. By gradually incorporating Mediterranean diet foods and making other healthy lifestyle changes, individuals can take proactive steps towards better health and lower diabetes risk.