An Update on the Mediterranean, Vegetarian, and DASH Eating Patterns in People With Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

When it comes to eating, there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. This article provides an overview of recommendations and research for three evidence-based eating patterns—Mediterranean, DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), and vegetarian/vegan—that can be individualized for people with type 2 diabetes. In an effort to improve adherence and health outcomes, practical considerations for improving nutrition are highlighted with the aim of helping patients successfully adopt an eating pattern that meets their individual needs and sociocultural and personal preferences.

The Association of Adherence to Moringa, Plantains, Moringa-Plantain Combined Diets, and Other Plant-Based Dietary Patterns With Glycemic Control Among Persons With T2DM, a Hospital Based Cross Sectional Survey in Ghana

“…Many studies have touted the benefits of plant-based dietary patterns for health promotion and disease prevention [25][26][27]. However most of these studies tend to have low sample sizes, relatively short follow up periods and failed to adjust the effect of physical activities on these dietary patterns.…”

Health Benefits of Vegetarian and Mediterranean Diets: Narrative Review

“…The vegan diet adoption ranged from 1 year to 20 years and the vegetarian diet from 1 year to 25 years. Most studies (12) were conducted in Asia, followed by Europe (6) and South America (3). The research focused on the following biomarkers: CRP, tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-6, interleukin-18, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, selectin E, intercellular adhesion molecule, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, adiponectin, omentin-1, and resistin.…”

“…The authors' main conclusion is that the Mediterranean diet is the most effective dietary approach for improving glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes [Schwingshackl et al, 2018]. However, both dietary approaches are considered beneficial for diabetics since they feature an abundance of vegetables, fruits, grains, and cereals -and therefore fiber -which positively affects blood glucose levels [Benson & Hayes, 2020].…”

Inverse Association of the Adequacy and Balance Scores in the Modified Healthy Eating Index with Type 2 Diabetes in Women

“…Healthy dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) are currently recommended to lower the risk of metabolic diseases. These are easy to follow and they can be applied to one’s diet to make it healthier [ 5 ]. MedDiet and DASH are basically plant-based diets that are rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, herbs, spices, and low-fat dairy foods [ 5 ].…”

“…These are easy to follow and they can be applied to one’s diet to make it healthier [ 5 ]. MedDiet and DASH are basically plant-based diets that are rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, herbs, spices, and low-fat dairy foods [ 5 ]. The DASH diet emphasizes the consumption of lower quantities of sodium to prevent hypertension compared to MedDiet.…”