Diabetes Archive

Semaglutide, a GLP-1 agonist used to treat diabetes and obesity, may also help people with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis, a severe stage of fatty liver disease, suggests a 2025 study.

Metabolic syndrome is defined as having at least three of the following: abdominal obesity, high blood triglyceride levels, high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, and low HDL cholesterol levels. The condition significantly increases the risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, kidney disease, fatty liver disease, and sleep apnea. While each factor is problematic, the main driver is abdominal obesity, from visceral fat surrounding internal organs. The best way to reduce visceral fat is aerobic exercise, strength training, and a plant-based diet.

A 2025 analysis suggested that GLP-1 medications used for diabetes and weight loss are associated with lower risks for an array of conditions, but that they increase risks for several others.

A 2024 study observed that people who eat at least five servings of dark chocolate each week were less likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

In a 2024 study, people with a habit of eating dark chocolate—about an ounce a day—were less likely to develop diabetes compared to those who didn't consume it.

People with type 2 diabetes may have greater protection from cardiovascular problems if they keep their systolic blood pressure (the first number in a reading) to 120 mm Hg or lower, according to a 2024 study.