Dietary Patterns, Diabetes, and Aging

Abstract

Several studies have suggested that eating patterns are associated with healthy aging and lower risk of diseases such as diabetes. The purpose of this paper is to review recent publications about dietary patterns, diabetes, and aging. The most robust research available on dietary patterns to reduce the risk of diabetes mainly indicates Mediterranean-style, DASH diet, vegetarian or vegan, and low-carb diet plans. An optimal dietary pattern for healthy aging and the treatment of diabetes should emphasize plant-based food (vegetables, beans, nuts and seeds, fruits, and whole intact grains), fish and other seafood, olive oil as the principal source of dietary fat; low-fat dairy products (mainly yoghurt and cheese) in low to moderate amounts; minimized consumption of refined grains; and preference of whole foods over highly processed foods. Further research on this topic is needed.