### How Poor Diet Contributes to Type 2 Diabetes A recent study published in Nature Medicine has found that poor diet is linked to over 70% of new type 2 diabetes (T2D) cases worldwide. The study analyzed nearly 30 years of data from 184 countries, focusing on 11 dietary factors. In 2018 alone, researchers estimated that 14.1 million T2D cases were due to poor eating habits. #### Key Dietary Factors Three main dietary factors were identified as having a significant impact on T2D risk: 1. **Not eating enough whole grains** 2. **Consuming too much refined rice and wheat** 3. **Overconsumption of processed meat** Other factors, such as drinking too much fruit juice or not eating enough non-starchy vegetables, had a smaller impact on T2D risk. #### Why Diet Matters Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body can't produce or use enough insulin to convert sugars from food into energy, leading to high blood sugar levels. Major risk factors include being overweight, physically inactive, or over 45 years old. #### Global Trends The study found that T2D cases have increased in all 184 countries examined. Regions with diets high in red and processed meats, like Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia, had the highest number of T2D cases linked to diet. Conversely, regions with diets low in refined grains and processed meats, like South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, had fewer T2D cases. #### Tips for Prevention Small dietary changes can significantly reduce your risk of T2D. Consider: - Eating more whole grains - Reducing intake of refined grains and processed meats - Incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet Over time, these changes can lead to weight loss, increased energy, and a lower risk of T2D. Remember, the results won't happen overnight, but consistent small changes can make a big difference.