Combining Mediterranean Diet, Calorie Reduction, and Exercise Could Lower Type 2 Diabetes Risk
A comprehensive approach combining the Mediterranean diet, calorie reduction, and exercise can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to new research. Learn how lifestyle changes offer significant health benefits.
A recent study suggests that adopting a Mediterranean-style diet alongside caloric restriction and regular physical activity can significantly decrease the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Conducted by researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and multiple Spanish universities, the study tracked over 4,700 adults aged 55 to 75 who were overweight or obese and had metabolic syndrome but did not have diabetes at the start.
Participants in the intervention group followed a Mediterranean diet plan, reduced their daily caloric intake by approximately 600 calories, and engaged in moderate exercise such as brisk walking and strength training, with professional support to aid weight loss. Meanwhile, the control group maintained a standard Mediterranean diet without specific calorie or activity guidance. Over six years, those in the intervention group experienced a 31% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to the control group.
Beyond the reduced disease risk, the intervention group also saw average weight loss of 3.3 kilograms and a waist circumference decrease of 3.6 centimeters, whereas the control group experienced minimal changes. The findings highlight that modest but sustained lifestyle modifications can have a profound impact on health, emphasizing the importance of diet, exercise, and professional support in disease prevention.
The research, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, underscores the potential for public health strategies to incorporate these interventions to curb the growing diabetes epidemic. Co-author Miguel Martínez-González from the University of Navarra notes that implementing calorie control and physical activity alongside a healthy diet can prevent approximately three out of every 100 individuals from developing diabetes, offering a clear benefit for population health.
This study adds to existing evidence that high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins, combined with lifestyle adjustments, can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation, further lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-mediterranean-diet-combined-calorie-reduction.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Pilot Study Shows Mediterranean Diet May Alleviate Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
A pilot study reveals that the Mediterranean diet may help reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, offering a less restrictive alternative to traditional diets like low FODMAP. Researchers emphasize its potential as a practical, health-promoting intervention.
Incorporating Small Portions of Favorite Foods During Meals Can Reduce Cravings and Enhance Weight Loss
Incorporating small portions of favorite foods into meals can help reduce cravings and support long-term weight loss, according to recent research from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. This inclusive approach challenges traditional dieting myths and promotes sustainable weight management.
Questioning the 200 Daily Food Decisions Myth: New Research Challenges Old Assumptions
Challenging the longstanding myth that people make over 200 unconscious food decisions daily, new research emphasizes a nuanced understanding of eating behavior and decision-making processes.