Development of an Evidence-Based Practice Protocol to Support the Use of Olive Oil for Managing Type 2 Diabetes
Abstract
Abeer Aseeri
Background: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a worldwide issue, and the complications are life-threatening. The main T2D-related causes of early death are cardiovascular risk factors. Although the association between olive oil consumption and T2D has been examined, guidelines for its use in patients with T2D have not been established.
Objectives: The aim of this review was to develop a protocol and provide recommendations for managing T2D in adults, focusing on daily olive oil consumption to control blood glucose level and prevent T2D complications. As a result, evidence-based practice (EBP) guidelines were developed.
Design: This review relied on the Stevens ACE STAR Model of Knowledge Transformation©, which aids in understanding the knowledge phases and features that are used in several aspects of EBP. Data sources: Scoping searches using the keywords “olive oil” and “type 2 diabetes” were undertaken using different websites and six databases including the Cochrane Database, PubMed, Google Scholar, Research Gate and EBSCO.
Review methods: Studies that compared the effects of olive oil consumption and the effects of the Mediterranean diet between patients with and those without diabetes mellitus were selected based on both the level of evidence and quality. Articles that described studies comparing olive oil consumption with consumption of other ingredients or another type of oil were excluded. Studies were restricted to those with adults (aged ≥18 years) with T2D; adults with type 1 diabetes and children were excluded. The association between olive oil consumption and T2D was examined.
Results: Olive oil improves numerous cardiovascular risk factors, while controlling blood glucose levels and preventing T2D complications. The new EBP guidelines include an assessment of diet consumption, plan of implementation, and patient education. This policy applies to adults (aged ≥18 years) with type 2 diabetes.
Conclusion: The suggested guidelines will decrease blood glucose levels and body weight, prevent T2D complications, improve lipid profiles, and lower healthcare costs.