RESUMEN
OBJECTIVES: Evaluate the effectiveness of the implementation of independently or combined dietary and physical activity programs on the blood glucose values and lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes, including participants aged 60 years and over. DESIGN: Systematic review. DATA SOURCE: PubMed/Medline database, with language restrictions. Papers published between 2010 and 2016 were included. STUDY SELECTION: A total of 30 randomised controlled trials were included that focused on physical activity and dietary interventions in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and include participants aged 60 years and over. RESULTS: The selected articles have shown that the implementation of physical activity programs (aerobic, resistance, flexibility and combined exercises), and programs based on a higher intake of vegetables, grains, legumes, fruits, unsaturated fatty acids, as well as consumption of foods with low glycaemic index, calorie restriction, intake of probiotics, vitamin D supplementation and educational sessions about diabetes improves blood glucose levels, as well as the lipid profile, in patients with type 2 diabetes. CONCLUSIONS: Physical activity and dietary programs are fundamental in the treatment and metabolic control of type 2 diabetes mellitus.