A large European study finds that a calorie-cut Mediterranean diet plus exercise and support lowers type 2 diabetes risk by 31% in high-risk older adults. Small, sustained changes have big public health potential.
October 13, 2025
Source:
ScienceDaily
Study Reveals Impact on Diabetes Prevention
Spanish researchers have announced results from the PREDIMED-Plus trial, the largest nutrition study ever conducted in Europe (ScienceDaily). Nearly 4,750 participants aged 55–75, all overweight or obese and at risk for type 2 diabetes, took part. Over six years, those following a calorie-reduced Mediterranean diet, exercising regularly, and receiving professional support saw their diabetes risk drop by 31% compared to a standard diet group (Harvard Public Health).
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Source:
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
How the Intervention Worked
Methods and Key Results
Participants: 4,746 adults with overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome, but no prior diabetes or cardiovascular disease
Intervention Group: Calorie-reduced Mediterranean diet (600 kcal/day cut), regular moderate exercise (brisk walking, strength, balance), and professional counseling
Control Group: Traditional Mediterranean diet with no calorie restriction or extra support
Follow-Up: Six years
The intervention group averaged a 3.3 kg weight loss and a 3.6 cm waist reduction, compared to negligible changes in the control group. Modest lifestyle shifts proved significant, even when weight loss was not extreme. (Annals of Internal Medicine).
Read More
Source:
Medical Xpress
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