Spanish People with Type 2 Diabetes Show an Improved Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet

Gut microbiome and Mediterranean diet in the context of obesity. Current knowledge, perspectives and potential therapeutic targets

Mediterranean Diet has been recognized as one of the healthiest and sustainable dietary patterns worldwide, based on the food habits of people living in the Mediterranean region. It is focused on a plant-based cuisine combining local agricultural products and moderate intake of fish. As eating habits seem to exert a major impact on the composition of gut microbiota, numerous studies show that an adherence to the Mediterranean diet positively influences the microbiome ecosystem network. This has a profound effect on multiple host metabolic pathways and plays a major role in immune and metabolic homeostasis. Among metabolic disorders, obesity represents a major health issue where Mediterranean Dietary regime could possibly slowdown its spread. The aim of this review is to emphasize the interaction between diet and gut microbiota and the potential beneficial effects of Mediterranean diet on metabolic disorders like obesity, which is responsible for the development of many noncommunicable diseases.

Adherence to Dietary Guidelines in Adults by Diabetes Status: Results From the 2012 Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey

The aims of the present study were to compare the adherence to dietary guidelines and evaluate potential differences in nutrient profiles among adults by diabetes status. We used the Mexican Alternate Healthy Eating Index (MxAHEI) to evaluate adherence to dietary guidelines. We calculated the MxAHEI scores (total and by dietary component) with scales from 0 (non-adherence) to 100 (perfect adherence) based on a food frequency questionnaire. Mean daily intakes of macronutrients and micronutrients (g, mg, mcg/1000 kcal per day) were also estimated by diabetes status. Sex-specific, multivariable linear regression models were estimated to test whether MxAHEI scores as well as nutrient intakes were different by diabetes status. Mexican adults had low adherence to the dietary guidelines irrespective of their diabetes status (score < 50 points). Among men, the MxAHEI score was 2.6 points higher among those with diabetes than those without diabetes (46.9; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 44.6, 49.2 vs. 44.3; 95% CI: 44.2, 45.6, respectively). Among women, the total MxAHEI score was similar in individuals with diabetes compared to those without diabetes. Lower intakes of carbohydrates and added sugars and higher intakes of protein, calcium, and zinc were observed in individuals with diabetes. Our findings support the development of strategies focused on promoting dietary patterns that can help to prevent and control the disease.