Dynamics of Dairy Product Consumption, Confounding Factors, and Their Influence on the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

It has long been debated whether or not dairy consumption increases the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). This link has been assessed by a large number of case-control studies, prospective cohort studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. The majority of their studies demonstrated an inverse relationship between the risk of T2D and dairy consumption. It is yet unclear how dairy products specifically contribute to metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes. However, a surprising number of studies have indicated either no association or a positive correlation between the development of type 2 diabetes and certain dairy products. The objective of this narrative review is to collate research findings from diverse geographical contexts, exploring the impact of dairy product consumption on the incidence and risk of Type 2 diabetes (T2D). This review includes studies that addressed this research issue and were released between the years 2000 and 2023. This will help the public draw logical inferences and validate the body of recent research. To shed light on this matter, the writers conduct a comprehensive search of electronic scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Thus, this review emphasizes the connection between the usage of different dairy products and the risk of T2D. After controlling for confounding variables, this review indicates that the relationship between the incidence of type 2 diabetes and consumption of dairy products is context-dependent. In conclusion, not all dairy products help to prevent type 2 diabetes. There is no association between most other dairy products and T2D, while in some cases benefits of yogurt and other low-fat dairy products have been reported.