Graduation Date
Spring 2025
Document Type
Thesis
Program
Master of Science degree with a major in Kinesiology
Committee Chair Name
Rock Braithwaite
Committee Chair Affiliation
Cal Poly Humboldt Faculty or Staff
Second Committee Member Name
Taylor Bloedon
Second Committee Member Affiliation
Cal Poly Humboldt Faculty or Staff
Third Committee Member Name
Whitney Ogle
Third Committee Member Affiliation
Cal Poly Humboldt Faculty or Staff
Keywords
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Plant-based diets, Erythrocyte function, Oxidative stress, Vascular inflammation, Insulin resistance, Glycation, Atherosclerosis, Antioxidants, Lipotoxicity, Glucotoxicity, Endothelial dysfunction, Redox balance, Nutritional therapy, Dietary intervention
Subject Categories
Kinesiology
Abstract
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder with diverse etiological contributors, characterized by insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and an increased risk of vascular complications. While much research has focused on plasma and serum markers of metabolic dysfunction, the role of erythrocytes in diabetic pathophysiology remains underexplored. This review examines the impact of dietary macronutrient composition, particularly plant-based diets, on erythrocyte function, oxidative stress, and vascular inflammation in T2DM. Red blood cells (RBCs) are not only oxygen carriers but also dynamic regulators of immune and inflammatory responses, with structural and functional alterations playing a critical role in diabetic angiopathy. The review discusses the mechanisms by which hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and increased free radicals contribute to RBC deformability, permeability, and aggregation, ultimately exacerbating atherosclerosis and vascular dysfunction. Furthermore, it evaluates current literature on the influence of plant-based diets in mitigating these effects by reducing oxidative stress, improving lipid and glucose homeostasis, and enhancing vascular health. The findings suggest that plant-based dietary interventions may offer protective effects against RBC dysfunction and vascular inflammation, providing a potential avenue for managing diabetes-related complications.
Citation Style
APA
Recommended Citation
Craig, Walter G., "The impact of plant-based diets on erythrocyte function, oxidative stress, and vascular inflammation in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus" (2025). Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects. 2270.
https://digitalcommons.humboldt.edu/etd/2270
Comments
No conflicts of interest