An update on the implications of dietary patterns on diabetes incidence

Type 2 diabetes is a major, non-communicable disease, whose prevalence is increasing rapidly worldwide. Dietary habits and lifestyle in general, are important factors influencing the development of diabetes. Results from prospective cohort, case-control, and cross sectional studies, as well as clinical trials suggest that adherence to a healthy dietary pattern may confer significant protection regarding the development of the disease. In addition, consumption of specific foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grain products, and fish, as well as moderate alcohol drinking, together with daily olive oil use, seems to be protective against the development of type 2 diabetes.