NUTRITIONAL INTERVENTIONS IN TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS: IMPACT OF LOW-CARB, MEDITERRANEAN, AND NUTRIGENOMICS DIETS ON GLYCEMIC CONTROL – A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) represents a global challenge due to its increasing prevalence and impact on patients' quality of life. Nutritional strategies play an essential role in glycemic control and the prevention of associated complications. This systematic review evaluated modern nutritional approaches, including low-carb, Mediterranean, and plant-based diets, as well as the impact of bioactive compounds and nutrigenomics on disease management. Methods: A systematic search was performed in the PubMed database using health sciences descriptors in their English version. Randomized controlled trials evaluating nutritional interventions in patients with T2DM were included. The outcomes analyzed included glycemic control, quality of life, and complications associated with hyperglycemia. Results: The analysis of 46 studies indicated that the low-carb diet demonstrated greater efficacy in reducing HbA1c levels and postprandial blood glucose compared to conventional and Mediterranean diets. In addition, supplementation with bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and essential fatty acids, has shown promise in modulating inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity. Nutrigenomics has emerged as a potential approach to personalize nutritional treatment, although its clinical application still faces challenges. Conclusion: The low-carb diet proved to be the most effective nutritional intervention for DM2 control, especially in reducing glycemic variability and improving insulin resistance. However, complementary approaches, such as the Mediterranean diet and supplementation with bioactive compounds, may offer additional benefits. Personalization of treatment through nutrigenomics represents a promising advance, but requires further study for its practical implementation.