Association of Lifelines Diet Score (LLDS) with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension among postmenopausal women: a cross-sectional study

The Lifelines Diet Score (LLDS), which adheres to the 2015 Dutch Dietary Guidelines, has not undergone testing yet, despite previous research indicating a potential link between diet quality and the occurrence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension (HTN). As such, this study was undertaken to explore the relationship between the Lifelines Diet Score (LLDS) and the prevalence of T2DM and HTN in postmenopausal women.

1341 women, with an average age of 49.45 ± 14.65 years old, enrolled in this study. Anthropometric measurements, biochemical testing, and body composition was assessed using standardized procedures for each participant. Utilizing a validated and dependable 147-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), the Lifelines Diet Score (LLDS) was computed using 12 constituent elements. In addition to this, the estimations were determined through the application of both multiple and univariate logistic regression techniques.

In healthy participants, the mean LLDS was 55.48 ± 4.28; in women with HTN, T2DM, or T2DM&HTN, the average LLDS was 27.37 ± 12.44, 26.47 ± 11.51, and 35.32 ± 5.74, respectively (P = 0.001). After adjusting for energy intake, age, carbohydrate, protein, fat, physical activity, and body mass index (BMI) the probability of developing HTN is 38% lower in the third tertile of LLDS than in the first tertile (OR = 0.62, CI 95% = 0.39–0.98) (P < 0.001). and 39% lower for developing T2DM (OR = 0.61, CI 95% = 0.35–0.99), (P < 0.001).

The results of this study revealed a correlation between LLDS and HTN, and T2DM, as well as the risk factors linked to these health conditions among postmenopausal women. Dietary adjustments are advisable for mitigating inflammation.