Study Finds Healthy Plant-Based Diet Can Eliminate Many Type 2 Diabetes Cases – The Daily Guardia

Tony Joseph 11 months ago 2 min read

A recent study conducted by scientists at Queen’s University Belfast has revealed that adopting a healthy plant-based diet can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The study, which observed over 113,000 people for a 12-year period, found that individuals who followed a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains had a 24% lower risk of diabetes compared to those who consumed a diet rich in snacks, desserts, refined grains, and sugary drinks.

Out of the participants observed, 2,600 individuals developed type 2 diabetes during the study. Interestingly, the beneficial effects of a plant-based diet were observed even among individuals who were genetically predisposed to the disease and those with other risk factors such as obesity.

According to the authors of the study, a healthy plant-based diet may protect against type 2 diabetes by various means, including reducing body fatness, normalizing blood sugar levels, lowering inflammation, and improving kidney and liver function. These findings are particularly important considering the global prevalence of diabetes, which currently stands at 6% but is projected to rise to 10% by 2050. It is worth noting that type 2 diabetes accounts for approximately 95% of all diabetes cases.

The study’s findings have been published in the esteemed Diabetes & Metabolism journal, adding credibility to the results and attracting attention from the scientific community and the general public alike. This new research provides valuable insights into the potential of adopting a plant-based diet in minimizing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

In Ireland, where the study was conducted, approximately 10% of adults aged over 50 have type 2 diabetes. This number increases significantly to 16% in those aged over 80, highlighting the pressing need for effective and accessible preventative strategies. The study’s findings could have significant implications for public health policies and dietary guidelines in Ireland and beyond.

As the world continues to grapple with the growing burden of diabetes, this study serves as a timely reminder of the importance of dietary choices in managing and preventing the disease. The scientific community and healthcare professionals are hopeful that these findings will encourage individuals to adopt healthier eating habits, thereby reducing the incidence of type 2 diabetes and improving overall population health.