The Nordic diet, an eating pattern originating from Scandinavian countries, seems to have overtaken the Mediterranean diet for its benefits for type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (now referred to as MASLD or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease). According to a 12-month randomised controlled clinical trial published in the Nature Communications journal, the Nordic diet — which focuses on fibre from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, along with a small amount of saturated fat — is beneficial compared to a low-carbohydrate diet. The study noted that this diet offered the best results in participants with diabetes, with just over 20 per cent of their liver fat getting reduced and blood sugar (glucose) control improving over one year. It also noted that more than half of the participants witnessed a remission of their fatty liver disease.
“Taken together, these results are promising and suggest that the Nordic Diet may be an effective dietary approach for treating NAFLD and improving its associated metabolic disorders,” the December 2025 study noted.
Taking a cue from the promising study, let’s learn more about the Nordic diet.
As a traditional eating pattern from Scandinavian countries, it focuses on whole, seasonal foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits like berries, legumes, nuts, seeds, fatty fish, and healthy oils. “This diet has gained attention because it promotes minimally processed foods and limits saturated fat. Both of these factors are important for managing lifestyle-related conditions like type-2 diabetes and fatty liver disease,” he told indianexpress.com.
How does this diet help people with type 2 diabetes?
Notably, type-2 diabetes is often linked to insulin resistance, and diets high in fibre and complex carbohydrates help slow the rise in blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. “The Nordic diet includes whole grains, vegetables, and plant-based foods that help prevent sudden glucose spikes. Healthy fats from fish and nuts also support metabolic health and long-term blood sugar control,” said Dr Mule.
Here’s what you should consider about type 2 diabetes (Photo: AI Generated)
What about fatty liver disease?
Yes, dietary patterns like the Nordic diet can help manage NAFLD or MASLD. “Eating more fibre, cutting back on refined sugars, and including healthy fats can reduce liver fat and inflammation. Additionally, this approach encourages steady weight loss, which is one of the most effective ways to reverse fatty liver changes,” said Dr Mule.
Is the Nordic diet practical for Indian patients?
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According to Dr Mule, the basic principles of the Nordic diet can be easily adapted to Indian eating habits. “There is no need to follow it exactly. Whole grains like millets or brown rice, plenty of vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and good-quality protein sources provide similar benefits. The focus should be on natural, minimally processed foods instead of trying to replicate a foreign diet plan,” said Dr Mule.
Should people with diabetes or fatty liver follow this diet without medical guidance?
While the Nordic diet is generally safe, individual dietary needs can vary. “People with diabetes, fatty liver, or other metabolic conditions should seek medical or nutritional advice. A diet works best when combined with regular exercise, good sleep, and a balanced lifestyle rather than short-term dietary changes,” said Dr Mule.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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