People with higher levels of carotenoids — natural pigments from fruits and vegetables — are significantly less likely to develop type 2 diabetes, even after accounting for weight and lifestyle.
Scientific Claim
Higher plasma total carotenoid levels are associated with a 25% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes per standard deviation increase in a European population, indicating that multiple plant-derived compounds may collectively influence diabetes risk.
Original Statement
“A similar inverse association was shown for total carotenoids (hazard ratio per standard deviation 0.75, 0.68 to 0.82).”
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 language 'associated with' correctly reflects the observational nature of the study. The hazard ratio and confidence interval are accurately presented without implying causation.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Unknown Title
People with more of these natural plant chemicals in their blood were much less likely to get type 2 diabetes, and the more they had, the lower their risk — suggesting eating more fruits and veggies helps prevent diabetes.