A new study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reveals that combining a Mediterranean diet with reduced caloric intake and moderate exercise can significantly lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The researchers followed 4,746 overweight or obese participants aged 55–75 with metabolic syndrome, but without prior diabetes or cardiovascular disease, for six years.
How was the study conducted?
Participants were split into two groups: the intervention group followed a Mediterranean diet, cut about 600 calories per day, engaged in regular moderate physical activity like brisk walking, strength training and balance exercises and received professional weight loss support. The control group received general advice about the Mediterranean diet but no structured support.
Findings:
After six years, 9.5 per cent of the intervention group developed type 2 diabetes, compared with 12.0 per cent in the control group—a 31 per cent lower risk. Additionally, the intervention group also saw greater health improvements, including an average weight loss of 3.3kg and a waist reduction of 3.6cm, versus 0.6kg and 0.3cm in the control group.
The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, moderate amounts of dairy and lean proteins like fish and chicken and little to no intake of red meat, has long been associated with better health outcomes.
“With the highest-level evidence, our study shows that modest, sustained changes in diet and lifestyle could prevent millions of cases of this disease worldwide,” said the study’s co-author.
In practical terms, the intervention prevented three out of every 100 participants from developing type 2 diabetes, marking a measurable public health benefit.