Leading researchers gathered at the 43rd International Symposium on Diabetes and Nutrition to present the latest evidence on the role of nuts in preventing chronic disease and supporting metabolic and cognitive health. During the symposium, an INC-funded session showcased new research from international experts, including preliminary findings from the landmark INC-funded NUTPOOL study.
From June 15–18, 2026, a record 220 clinicians, researchers, dietitians and health professionals from 41 countries gathered in Montbrió del Camp, Tarragona, Spain. The event featured 115 scientific presentations covering the latest advances in nutrition, diabetes, obesity, metabolism and related diseases.
The INC-sponsored session, “Emerging Evidence on the Health Benefits of Nuts,” was chaired by Prof. Jordi Salas-Salvadó, Chair of the INC World Forum for Nutrition Research and Dissemination, and Dr. John Sievenpiper (University of Toronto). Experts from Europe, North America and Asia presented the latest research on nuts and diabetes prevention, metabolic health, brain function and cognition, alongside preliminary results from the INC-funded NUTPOOL study.
Dr. Peter Joris (Maastricht University, The Netherlands) reviewed evidence showing that regular nut consumption may improve insulin sensitivity, brain function and cerebral vascular health, highlighting its potential role in supporting healthy cognitive ageing.
Dr. Anoop Misra (Fortis-C-DOC Centre of Excellence for Diabetes, Metabolic Diseases and Endocrinology, India) presented research demonstrating the positive effects of nuts on glucose regulation and insulin metabolism. Studies suggest that nut consumption may improve glycaemic control, while help individuals with prediabetes return to normal glucose regulation.
Dr. Changzheng Yuan (Zhejiang University, China) discussed growing evidence linking higher nut consumption with better cognitive performance and a lower risk of dementia, with metabolomic research beginning to explain the biological mechanisms behind these benefits.
A highlight of the session was the presentation of preliminary findings from the INC-funded NUTPOOL study led by Dr. Marta Guasch-Ferré (University of Copenhagen, Denmark). Combining data from 27 cohorts and nearly one million participants across four continents, NUTPOOL is the first individual participant meta-analysis to apply a standardized approach to investigating nut consumption and chronic disease risk. Early analyses indicate that higher nut intake is associated with lower risks of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality.
The session also explored emerging research on multi-omics and cardiometabolic health before concluding with a discussion on future research priorities. Together, the presentations reinforced the growing body of evidence supporting nuts as an important component of healthy dietary patterns and highlighted the INC’s continued commitment to advancing nutrition research worldwide.
