Even when researchers looked at different groups of people, different ways of measuring diet, or different countries, eating more leafy greens still seemed to be linked to lower diabetes risk, which makes the finding more reliable.
Scientific Claim
The association between green leafy vegetable intake and reduced type 2 diabetes risk was consistent across subgroups including sex, follow-up duration, geographic location, and dietary assessment method, though heterogeneity remained moderate (I²=39.6%), suggesting the link is robust despite methodological differences.
Original Statement
“Sensitivity analysis showed no significant interactions between any of these variables that would explain the heterogeneity seen... Heterogeneity was assessed with the I2 statistic (I²=39.6%, P=0.18).”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The claim accurately reflects the sensitivity analysis results without implying causation. The moderate heterogeneity is correctly noted, and the consistency across subgroups is appropriately described as a pattern of association.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Fruit and vegetable intake and incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus: systematic review and meta-analysis
This study found that people who ate more green leafy veggies like spinach and kale had a lower risk of getting type 2 diabetes, which matches the claim that these veggies help protect against the disease.