Critical analysis of the American Diabetes Association dietary recommendations for cardiovascular disease in diabetes mellitus

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the main cause of mortality among patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), and dietary intervention is an essential measure to prevent and treat this complication. The aim of this manuscript was to review scientific evidence that underlies the dietetic recommendations of the American Diabetes Association (ADA) for prevention and treatment of CVD in patients with DM. The ADA guidelines are mostly based on studies performed on patients with CVD and without DM. The evidence-based dietary recommendations for patients with DM are to increase the intake of fish and soluble fibers. Although DM has been considered as an equivalent of established CVD, the adoption of the same dietary recommendations for patients without DM and with CVD for all patients with DM is still questionable - especially considering the peculiarities of CVD in DM. Randomized clinical trials including patients with DM should provide further information regarding the benefits of these dietary interventions for CVD. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab, 2009;53(5):657-66.