Healthy and Environmentally Sustainable Dietary Patterns for Type 2 Diabetes: Dietary Approaches as Co-benefits to the Overlapping Crises

Abstract

The overlapping crises of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and climate change are two of the greatest challenges facing our global population. Dietary shifts have been identified as a critical leverage point to enact large-scale transformations to safeguard the health of humans and the planet. Dietary approaches for T2D and for mitigating environmental impact have been extensively studied as demonstrated by large separate bodies of evidence. A small number of emerging studies have jointly assessed the impacts of diets on T2D-related outcomes and the environment. In this review, we take an integrated approach to explore dietary strategies for the co-benefits for type 2 diabetes and the natural environment. Current evidence supports shifts towards diverse, healthful plant-based diets high in wholegrains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and vegetable oils and low in animal-based foods particularly red and processed meats, refined grains, and sugar-sweetened beverages as a leading strategy for prevention and treatment of T2D and mitigation of environmental impact. Dietary shifts towards healthful plant-based diets should align with regional dietary recommendations with consideration for local contexts and available resources. While the inextricable links between human and planetary health are increasingly appreciated, it is now evident that these challenges should be considered simultaneously for effective solutions. Breaking down the siloes and taking integrated approaches may also maximize potential for implementation by attracting collaboration and shared resources, funding, and effort.