Background
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is characterized by insulin resistance and progressive β-cell dysfunction. Although pharmacotherapy lowers glycemia, real-world escalation is common. The role of fruit in T2D remains debated.
Objective
To evaluate short-term changes in fasting blood glucose, body weight, medication use, and patient-reported outcomes during a 7-day fruit and vegetable (FAV) diet among adults with T2D already following a whole-food plant-based diet (WFPBD).
Methods
We conducted a retrospective analysis of 41 adults with T2D enrolled in an online diabetes reversal coaching program in September 2025. After ≥6 months on WFPBD, participants undertook a 7-day protocol of 3–4 fruit meals/day plus one mixed salad; grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and cooked foods were excluded. Primary outcome was within-subject change in fasting blood glucose from day 0 to day 7; secondary outcomes included weight and medication changes. Analyses used paired tests with 95% CIs and effect sizes.
Result
Mean fasting blood glucose decreased from 7.51 to 6.98 mmol/L (Δ −0.53 mmol/L, -7.1%). Mean body weight decreased from 71.73 to 70.21 kg (Δ −1.52 kg; −2.1%). Among 14 participants on glucose-lowering therapy, 4 (28.6%) reduced or discontinued medications, including 1 who discontinued insulin entirely. Reported adverse effects were mild and transient.
Conclusion
In adults with T2D already adhering to WFPBD, a 7-day FAV diet was associated with short-term improvements in fasting blood glucose and body weight, with some reductions in medication use. These real-world findings are hypothesis-generating and support evaluation in controlled trials to determine efficacy, safety, and durability.