[Research progress on the relationship between dietary patterns and common noninfectious chronic diseases]

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Nutritional Science
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Societal development has led to Westernized dietary patterns in China.
• This shift is associated with an increasing burden of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including ischemic heart disease and stroke.
• Diet is a recognized modifiable risk factor for many chronic diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize recent research (2015-2020) on dietary patterns and NCDs.
• To analyze the impact of dietary patterns on cardiovascular, metabolic, digestive, locomotor, and mental health systems.
• To identify risk and protective dietary factors for common NCDs.

Main Methods:

• Literature search of Chinese and English databases from 2015-2020.
• Integration of outcome indicators, potential mechanisms, and research findings.
• Systematic review from a human system perspective.

Main Results:

• Dietary patterns high in red/processed meats, fast foods, and sugary beverages are risk factors for numerous diseases.
• Dietary patterns rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and fish act as protective factors against most conditions.
• Specific associations were found across cardiovascular, metabolic, digestive, locomotor, and mental health systems.

Conclusions:

• Dietary patterns significantly influence the risk and progression of chronic non-communicable diseases.
• Promoting diets rich in plant-based foods and fish, while limiting processed items, is crucial for disease prevention.
• Further research is needed to refine our understanding and inform public health interventions.