A recent discussion by UCLA Health doctors highlights the role of plant-based diets in managing Type 2 diabetes. While the origins of vegetarianism date back to ancient Greece, with Pythagoras often cited as an early advocate for ethical reasons, current interest in plant-based eating is driven by its health benefits.
Research has shown that plant-based diets can reduce inflammation, improve cardiovascular health, and lower rates of certain cancers. These diets are also linked to better blood sugar control, which is crucial for people living with Type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body responds to insulin and eventually impacts insulin production. This leads to high blood glucose levels, which can cause complications such as nerve damage, kidney disease, impaired vision, and increased risk of heart attack or stroke. Although there is no cure for Type 2 diabetes, it can be managed effectively.
According to UCLA Health doctors: “Studies have found that a plant-based diet can have dual benefits. For people living with Type 2 diabetes, it can greatly improve blood sugar control. It’s also been found that a plant-based diet can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease. A study of 113,000 adults in Great Britain analyzed their health data. The study found that people with diets highest in fresh fruit and vegetables, legumes and grains lowered their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 25%. A separate review of more than 60 studies and research papers on the possible benefits of a plant-based diet corroborated these findings.”
Plant-forward eating emphasizes foods high in fiber—a nutrient lacking in many modern diets—which helps slow glucose absorption and improve insulin response. Replacing processed foods with fruits, vegetables, beans, grains, and legumes reduces intake of simple carbohydrates and added sugars associated with poor blood glucose control.
Doctors caution that while adopting a plant-based diet may lessen or eliminate reliance on medications for some individuals with Type 2 diabetes, medical supervision remains important: “Like we said, Type 2 diabetes cannot be cured. But for some people, adopting a plant-based or plant-forward diet can lessen or even eliminate the reliance on medications. However, it’s important to remember that diabetes is a silent disease. If you want to adopt a plant-based diet, work closely with your doctor as you track the resulting blood glucose response. Never change, reduce or eliminate medications without medical guidance.”
For more information or to schedule an appointment at UCLA Health Sciences Media Relations in Los Angeles (10960 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1955), patients are encouraged to use online booking options for virtual or in-person visits.
