EAT-Lancet Diet Adherence in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the adherence of individuals with type 2 diabetes to the EAT-Lancet diet and examine the relationship between dietary adherence and various health parameters. The study was conducted with 385 individuals with type 2 diabetes at a training and research hospital between August and November 2023. Data on general information, biochemical parameters, anthropometric measurements, 24-h dietary recall, and food frequency questionnaire were collected. The EAT-Lancet Diet Index was used to classify dietary adherence. Of the participants, 52.7% were female, and the mean age was 54.42 (SD 11.53) years. Higher adherence to the EAT-Lancet diet was associated with higher dietary fiber intake and lower total energy, protein, and fat intake. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the EAT-Lancet Diet Index and diabetes duration (p = 0.03), while a negative correlation was found between the index and fasting blood glucose levels (p = 0.02). Participants with higher adherence also had better glycemic control and lower HbA1c levels. Sociodemographic factors such as age influenced dietary adherence, with older individuals showing higher adherence. It is concluded that adherence to the EAT-Lancet diet is significantly associated with improved glycemic control and better health outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Promoting this sustainable diet through policy interventions and educational programs can enhance public health and environmental sustainability. Incorporating sustainable nutrition recommendations into dietary guidelines is recommended to improve adherence among diabetic patients.