Abstract

Context It seems that nut consumption does not lead to weight gain in the general population. However, fewer studies have explored this relationship in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Purpose To synthesize evidence on the effects of nut (specifically, tree nuts and peanuts) consumption on adiposity-related measures in individuals diagnosed with T2D. Data Sources and Study Selection Four databases were searched up to December 31, 2020. Randomized controlled trials that examined the effects of nut consumption vs a control diet on body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and percent body fat were included. Data Extraction The pooled effect sizes (p-ESs) and 95%CIs of nut consumption were estimated using random effects models. Data Synthesis A total of 15 randomized controlled trials including 899 individuals were included. No significant effects of nut-enriched interventions were found for body weight (p-ES = -0.04; 95%CI: -0.16 to 0.08), body mass index (p-ES = -0.05; 95%CI: -0.17 to 0.08), waist circumference (p-ES = -0.02; 95%CI: -0.20 to 0.15), or percent body fat (p-ES = -0.03; 95%CI: -0.28 to 0.21). Conclusion Nut consumption has no effect, positive or negative, on weight or adiposity parameters in people with T2D.