Lifestyle Interventions for the Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Narrative Review

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a pervasive global health challenge, with projections indicating a rise to 693 million cases by 2045 and an immense associated financial burden. This narrative review examines the effectiveness of non-pharmacological, lifestyle-oriented interventions in managing and mitigating T2DM. Electronic databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar were systematically searched for relevant reviews, meta-analyses, and original research. The analysis synthesizes evidence on structured dietary regimens, including the Mediterranean and DASH diets. It also highlights their role in improving glycemic control and insulin sensitivity through mechanisms such as modulating dietary fiber, glycemic load, and gut microbiota. The review further establishes that the synergistic combination of these dietary patterns with regular physical activity and resultant modest weight loss (5-10%) directly counteracts core pathophysiological pathways like insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction. Beyond nutrition and exercise, the integral roles of behavioral psychology, sleep quality, and tobacco abstinence are examined as critical components of a holistic management strategy. The evidence underscores that these lifestyle interventions are not merely adjuncts but fundamental to effective diabetes care. This synthesis aims to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers and clinicians, facilitating the integration of these dietary and lifestyle strategies to combat the growing global diabetes epidemic.