Economic growth, globalization of trade, and improvements in transportation have led to dramatic changes in food production, processing, and distribution systems, and greater access to unhealthy foods. Shifts in work patterns and increased computerization and mechanization have led to a significant reduction in physical activity. The resulting over-nutrition has led to an increase in body weight and a higher incidence of diabetes and related complications worldwide. There are currently 382 million (8.3%) adults with diabetes worldwide, and that number is expected to reach 592 million by 2035. $147 billion was spent on diabetes care in Europe in 2013, and $363 billion in North America and the Caribbean. Diabetes has become one of the leading causes of death in people under the age of 60. To combat this global epidemic, effective diabetes prevention and management is necessary. Over the past 20 years, evidence from prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials has demonstrated the importance of individual nutrition, food, and dietary patterns in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes. The quality of dietary fats and carbohydrates is more important than the quantity of these nutrients. Diets rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts; moderate alcohol consumption; and low in refined grains, red or processed meats and sugary beverages have been shown to reduce the risk of developing diabetes and improve glycemic control and lipid levels in people with diabetes. In order to achieve long-term adherence to this diet plan, individuals have the flexibility to choose foods for weight control, diabetes prevention and management without compromising the overall quality of their diet. Almost all of the current knowledge on diabetes prevention and management comes from developed countries, and research on disease susceptibility and dietary habits of populations in other regions is essential. Evidence-based nutrition therapy recommendations have been developed and implemented in many developed countries. However, region-specific guidelines have to be developed to provide practical nutritional advice based on changing dietary patterns, available foods, and the agricultural characteristics of different regions. Global public health policies ensure that a healthy food environment is created for people across multiple sectors. Corresponding strategies include nutrition and agricultural policies that support the production and marketing of healthy foods, and agricultural subsidies that increase access to foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts. Increasing taxes on sugary beverages and other unhealthy products, which in turn will reduce the consumption of these foods and improve the overall quality of the diet. Standardized nutrition labels located on the front of packaging, public health campaigns, sound agricultural and food policies, and other global efforts may reshape the trajectory of nutritional change, improve the global food supply, and help curb the epidemic of type 2 diabetes.