Food and nutrition are fundamental to enhancing the quality of life, as they influence various aspects of health and well-being. This paper investigates the intricate relationship between dietary intake and quality of life by reviewing recent literature and empirical studies. It explores how balanced nutrition positively impacts physical health by reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and obesity. Additionally, the paper examines the significant role of nutrition in mental health, discussing how specific nutrients and dietary patterns can affect mood, cognitive function, and stress resilience. The interplay between dietary choices and mental well-being is analyzed through evidence linking nutrition with mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety. Furthermore, the study highlights how socio-economic factors, such as income and access to healthy foods, influence dietary habits and, consequently, quality of life. It emphasizes the need for public health initiatives that address these socio-economic disparities to improve nutritional outcomes across different population groups. By synthesizing findings from diverse research studies, the paper offers a comprehensive overview of how optimal nutrition can enhance overall life satisfaction and proposes actionable recommendations for dietary guidelines and public health strategies aimed at improving quality of life. This work underscores the importance of integrating nutrition into health promotion efforts to achieve a holistic improvement in individual and community well-being.

The rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus necessitates effective management strategies, with diet playing a pivotal role. This review examines the impact of various food patterns on type 2 diabetes mellitus outcomes, focusing on their influence on glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, and overall health. Key dietary patterns evaluated include the Mediterranean diet, low-carbohydrate diet, plant-based diet, low-fat diet, and intermittent fasting. The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and olive oil, hasbeen shown to improve glycemic control and insulin sensitivity while enhancing cardiovascular health. The low-carbohydrate diet, emphasizing reduced carbohydrate intake in favor of proteins and fats, provides short-term benefits in glycemic control and weight management, though long-term effects remain uncertain. A plant-based diet, characterized by high consumption of vegetables, fruits, legumes, and nuts, is associated with better glycemic control, lower HbA1c levels, and reduced risk of diabetes-related complications.