In July 2019 researchers from the USA published their review of the medical scientific literature to assess the association between plant-based dietary patterns and risk of diabetes type 2. A total of 9 studies were included, involving 307,099 individuals aged 18 years and over of whom 23,544 had been diagnosed with diabetes type 2. Results showed that a higher adherence to a plant-based dietary pattern was associated with a reduced risk of diabetes type 2. This association was strengthened when healthy plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts, were included. Most studies were judged to be of good quality in terms of dietary assessment, disease outcomes, and adjustment for confounding factors.
Qian F et al. Association Between Plant-Based Dietary Patterns and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Intern Med. 2019 Jul 22. [Epub ahead of print]