A study co-authored by researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health suggests that a Mediterranean-style diet, along with reduced caloric intake, moderate physical activity, and professional support for weight loss, could reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) by 31%.
The research was published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
“We’re facing a global epidemic of diabetes,” said co-author Frank Hu, Fredrick J. Stare Professor of Nutrition and Epidemiology and chair of the Department of Nutrition.
The study aimed to build on previous evidence linking the Mediterranean diet to better health outcomes, including a reduced risk of T2D through improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation.
Participants in the study followed a Mediterranean diet, reduced caloric intake, engaged in moderate physical activity, and received professional support for weight-loss control. The results showed that those in the intervention group had a 31% lower risk of developing T2D compared to the control group.
More information:
Comparison of an Energy-Reduced Mediterranean Diet and Physical Activity Versus an Ad Libitum Mediterranean Diet in the Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes, Annals of Internal Medicine (2025). DOI: 10.7326/ANNALS-25-00388
Citation:
Mediterranean diet combined with calorie reduction and exercise may reduce risk of type 2 diabetes (2025, August 25)
retrieved 25 August 2025
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