Diet and exercise lower type 2 diabetes risk even with genetic susceptibility
An analysis of UK Biobank data on nearly 57,000 adults found that lower ultra-processed food intake plus regular moderate-to-vigorous activity was linked to up to 70% lower type 2 diabetes risk. Among people with strong genetic predisposition, the combination halved the risk. The findings were presented at EASD.
The study drew on 56,964 UK Biobank participants, average age 69.5 and 42.3% male. Food questionnaires captured ultra-processed intake using Nova categories, while wrist trackers measured a week of moderate-to-vigorous activity. Over an average 7.8 years, 926 cases of type 2 diabetes occurred.
Risk rose by 7% for every 10% of diet weight from ultra-processed foods. Meeting WHO's 150-minute weekly activity target was tied to 39% lower risk. In high-genetic-risk participants, low ultra-processed intake and sufficient activity were linked to 35% and 33% lower risk, respectively. The findings were presented at EASD in Milan.
These findings may encourage adults—especially those with genetic susceptibility—to view diet and activity as modifiable levers. If replicated, they could inform clinical counseling and public health messaging, potentially reducing diabetes burden. However, observational data cannot prove causation, and access to affordable, minimally processed food and safe exercise spaces may shape who can act on this advice.