Mediterranean diet and sexual function in people with type 2 diabetes

This study compared the effects of a Mediterranean diet with a low-fat diet on sexual function in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). It was found that the Mediterranean diet reduced loss of sexual function. 

T2D has been linked to a decline in sexual function, in both men and women. Previous research has found that lifestyle changes, like weight loss and a healthy diet, improve sexual function.

The Mediterranean diet emphasizes eating foods like fruit, vegetables, nuts, beans, whole grains, fish, and poultry. Healthy (unsaturated) fats replace unhealthy (saturated) ones. Red meat and fatty, sugary sweets are limited. Studies on the effects of the Mediterranean diet on sexual function in patients with T2D are limited.

215 people with newly diagnosed T2D were recruited. Half began a Mediterranean diet, and half began a low-fat diet. The participants recorded their food intake in a diary. Both groups were also advised to increase their physical activity. Sexual function was assessed with a questionnaire. The participants were followed for 8.1 years.

Sexual function declined in men and women in both study groups. However, this decline was less in those who were on the Mediterranean diet. Participants who followed the diet the most strictly had the least decline in sexual function.

Weight, HbA1c (measures average blood glucose over the last 3 months), and blood pressure were reduced in both groups. The reduction was greatest in the Mediterranean diet group. C-reactive protein (a measure of inflammation) was reduced in the Mediterranean diet group, but did not change in the low-fat diet group.

The study concluded that the Mediterranean diet reduced the decline in sexual function in patients with T2D, compared with a low-fat diet.

This study focused on newly-diagnosed with T2D. All of the participants had good glycemic control, and none had received drugs to treat T2D yet. As such, the results of this study may not apply equally to all people with T2D.

Furthermore, the study relied on the honesty of the participants in reporting diet and sexual function.

Discuss the benefits of the Mediterranean diet and healthy eating with your physician.