[Which diet is appropriate for patients with diabetes mellitus?]

Which diet is appropriate for patients with diabetes mellitus? Abstract. What is considered a balanced diet for the general population is in principle also true for people with diabetes. The scarce scientific evidence does not justify a dogmatic attitude with strict rules and bans on nutrients or foods. Rather, all macronutrient groups are represented in a balanced diet, whereby a reduction in calorie intake can be equally successful via carbohydrates or fats. Ideal are products of high quality and with low and gentle processing, such as starch products rich in fibre and cold-pressed vegetable oils. The benefits of increased protein intake in terms of diabetes management and weight control are becoming increasingly clear. However, plant-based or dairy products should be used as sources rather than red or processed meat. The Mediterranean diet and concepts with a comparable scientific basis are most likely to meet the criteria of a "suitable" diet for diabetes patients. Although alcohol is dense with empty calories, there is no reason not to tolerate the consumption embedded in such a diet. In view of the individually different metabolic reactions to the same foods and taking into account the scarce evidence, a personalised approach is more appropriate than ever.