Around 11 million people in Germany live with diabetes, including 8.7 million with diagnosed type 2 diabetes. Experts expect the numbers to continue to rise in the future. A fatal development, because the disease is often related to other diseases, such as the heart, kidneys and liver. A higher mortality rate is also associated with type 2 diabetes.
In addition to family predispositions, lack of exercise and obesity, an unbalanced diet high in fat and sugar can be the cause of the disease.
A research team from the German Diabetes Center (DDZ) has now examined how different diets affect the management of type 2 diabetes and the prevention of complications. To do this, the researchers led by Edyta Szczerba and Sabrina Schlesinger collected data from 312 analyzes and evaluated them.
These diets help with type 2 diabetes
They found that many different nutritional approaches can help manage the disease – for example, by controlling blood sugar levels, supporting weight loss and having a positive effect on the cardiovascular system.
Such are one
Low-carb vegetable Mediterranean and high-protein
Nutrition promotes health because it has a positive effect on cardiovascular risk markers. This effect can also be observed with a higher consumption of omega-3 fatty acids. However, the experts point out that proteins should be consumed in plant form if possible.
The researchers also rated a high-fiber diet as positive. Furthermore, those affected by type 2 diabetes can benefit from a ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting, as these forms support weight loss. However, the scientists pointed out that this statement is less trustworthy.
It is also surprising to find that taking probiotics and ginger is good for blood sugar control.
Overall, the study results support a holistic approach to dealing with the disease. Not just weight control, but also a long-term healthy lifestyle is important.
Further studies are necessary
“These analyzes show that a wide range of diets can be successful in diabetes management. Future studies are now necessary to find out who benefits most from which diet in the long term in order to be able to give targeted recommendations – adapted to the respective needs and preferences of those affected,” said Michael Roden, Director of the Clinic for Endocrinology and Diabetology at the University Hospital Düsseldorf and director of the DDZ.