Abstract
BACKGROUND
Diabetes mellitus encompasses disorders characterized by hyperglycemia due to pancreatic β-cell dysfunction. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) constitutes over 90% of cases, with a background of genetic, metabolic, and environmental risk factors. Knowing that sex differences impact insulin resistance and glycemic control, this review aims to identify differences in adherence to dietary patterns between women and men with T2D.
OBJECTIVE
This systematic review aims to evaluate sex differences in dietary pattern adherence among individuals with T2D and the implications of these differences for glycemic control.
METHODS
The protocol was developed using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Studies published until July 2026 will be identified by searching the following electronic databases: MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Three investigators will independently screen articles based on titles and abstracts followed by a thorough analysis of selected full-text articles of interest. Articles on T2D and dietary pattern scores that include biological sex data will be included. The estimation of risk of bias will be performed using the Standard Quality Assessment Criteria for Evaluating Primary Research Papers From a Variety of Fields. To synthesize the results, a narrative analysis will be performed based on the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) framework.
RESULTS
The search strategy was developed and refined between July 2025 and July 2026 through scoping and pilot searches. The comprehensive database search will be conducted in August 2026, covering records from database inception to July 2026. Study selection and data extraction are expected to be completed by December 2026, with publication anticipated in late 2027.
CONCLUSIONS
This systematic review will provide a comprehensive overview of the role of sex in dietary adherence among individuals with T2D. Identifying sex-specific and gender differences may inform the development of tailored nutritional strategies and interventions aimed at improving glycemic outcomes. Ultimately, this work highlights the importance of incorporating sex-based approaches in the management of T2D to optimize long-term health outcomes.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
PROSPERO CRD42024340213; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024340213.
INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)
DERR1-10.2196/98958.