Purpose of the Study <p>The purpose of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of diabetes mellitus, including its definitions, types, diagnostic criteria, and risk factors, with a particular focus on Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes as well as gestational diabetes. The study aims to explore the impact of lifestyle factors, particularly diet and physical activity, on the management of diabetes. Additionally, it seeks to highlight the therapeutic potential of various medicinal plants in improving glycemic control and overall metabolic health.</p> Recent Findings <p>Recent findings from the review indicate that lifestyle modifications, including dietary interventions, play a crucial role in managing diabetes. The study emphasizes the significance of glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) in dietary management, underlining their importance in reducing the risk of diabetes and associated cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, the review identifies several medicinal plants with potential antidiabetic properties, including lentils (Lens culinaris), chickpeas (Cicer arietinum), bitter melon (Momordica charantia), turmeric (Curcuma longa), and saffron (Crocus sativus). These plants may help modulate glycemic control and improve metabolic health, offering promising avenues for dietary strategies in diabetes management.</p> Summary <p>This comprehensive review provides valuable insights into diabetes mellitus, detailing its types, risk factors, and the crucial role of lifestyle factors in management. It highlights the importance of dietary interventions, particularly those involving low glycemic index foods and medicinal plants, in enhancing glycemic control and reducing the risk of complications associated with diabetes. The findings underscore the necessity for personalized dietary strategies and lifestyle modifications as integral components of effective diabetes management.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>