Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a major global health burden, with lifestyle and dietary patterns serving as key modifiable risk factors. Nutritional interventions—including dietary fiber supplementation, low-glycemic-index diets, Mediterranean and plant-based diets, and functional food incorporation—have demonstrated potential to delay or prevent T2DM onset. This systematic review synthesizes evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, and meta-analyses on the efficacy of nutritional strategies in reducing diabetes risk. Data indicate that targeted interventions improve insulin sensitivity, glycemic control, and body weight management. Graphical and tabular analyses illustrate intervention effectiveness across populations. Findings underscore the importance of culturally adapted dietary programs and highlight areas for future research in personalized nutrition for diabetes prevention
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