Our team has returned from Spain where we attended DNSG 2026, one the premier conferences in diabetes and nutrition. With leading experts, researchers and students from around the world, the scientific program was full of the latest advances and insights in the field. Here are some of the new scientific developments and research shared at the conference:

• Novel predictors of disease risk: Metabolite signature improves prediction of Type 2 diabetes risk beyond conventional risk factors and may play a role in precision risk prevention. Ceramides are associated with increased risk of CVD beyond LDL-C and other risk factors, and diets that reduce ceramide levels are associated with improved CVD risk.

• Sarcopenia in diabetes: High protein intake, particularly in people over 65 years old, may increase lean body mass during weight loss or weight gain. Protein intake should be paired with resistance training as lean body mass preservation does not mean improved muscle function. Handgrip strength is a good measure of muscle function but criteria used must be specified as different thresholds have been defined.

• Food sources: Protein source is important with high intakes of animal protein associated with increased risk of CVD mortality and any intake of plant protein associated with decreased risk of CVD mortality. Diets rich in minimally-processed food choices are beneficial on weight loss beyond those with nutrient matched ultra-processed food choices.
• Carbohydrate processing: The length of time we cook pasta, how and for how long we store bread or the cooking and variety of potatoes, will notably influence our glycemic response.

As always, we returned with fresh ideas from the latest research and appreciation for the opportunity to connect with peers and collaborators. We look forward to next year’s conference!