Dietary patterns and diabetes mellitus

Type 2 diabetes is a major, non-communicable disease, with increasing prevalence worldwide. Lifestyle in general, and dietary habits in particular, influence the development of this condition. Results from epidemiological studies and clinical trials, suggest that adherence to a healthy dietary pattern, which consists of increased intake of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish, olive oil, and is also characterized by low intake of red meat and full fat dairy products, may protect against the development of the disease.