International Journal of Molecular Medical Science, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 380-392 http://medscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmms 381 elucidates the potential mechanisms, clinical efficacy, and practical applications of TCM-based dietary interventions in diabetes management. Understanding the role of TCM constitution in tailoring dietary therapy can offer new insights into more effective and personalized treatment strategies for diabetes. This study also seeks to highlight the gaps in current research and suggest directions for future studies to enhance the integration of TCM into mainstream diabetes care. The findings from this study could pave the way for developing innovative, constitution-specific dietary guidelines that improve clinical outcomes and quality of life for diabetic patients. 2 Basic Theory of TCM Constitution Identification 2.1 Definition and classification of TCM constitutions Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) constitution identification is a fundamental concept in TCM that categorizes individuals based on their physical, psychological, and physiological characteristics. This classification system is used to tailor treatments to the individual's unique constitution, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. TCM constitutions are generally classified into nine types: balanced, qi-deficiency, yang-deficiency, yin-deficiency, phlegm-dampness, damp-heat, blood-stasis, qi-stagnation, and special constitutions. Each type is characterized by specific symptoms and predispositions to certain diseases. For instance, individuals with a yin-deficiency constitution often exhibit symptoms such as dry mouth, night sweats, and a preference for cool environments, and they are more susceptible to conditions like diabetes and hypertension (Bai et al., 2021; Wang et al., 2023). 2.2 Characteristics of different constitution types and their correlation with diseases Each TCM constitution type has distinct characteristics and is associated with specific health risks. For example, the yin-deficiency constitution is marked by symptoms such as dryness, heat sensations, and a thin body frame. This type is commonly linked to diabetes, as individuals with yin-deficiency are more prone to hyperglycemia and insulin resistance (Bai et al., 2021). Similarly, the phlegm-dampness constitution, characterized by obesity, a greasy tongue coating, and a preference for warm environments, is often associated with metabolic disorders, including diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (Bai et al., 2021; Wang et al., 2023). Qi-deficiency, another common constitution type, is characterized by fatigue, shortness of breath, and a weak pulse, and it is frequently observed in individuals with chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension (Bai et al., 2021). Understanding these correlations helps in the early identification and management of potential health issues, thereby improving patient outcomes. 2.3 Importance of TCM constitution identification in diabetes management The identification of TCM constitutions plays a crucial role in the management of diabetes. By tailoring dietary and therapeutic interventions to the individual's constitution, TCM practitioners can enhance the effectiveness of treatments and improve overall health outcomes. For instance, a study found that TCM-based lifestyle interventions, such as tai chi and ba duan jin, significantly improved glycemic control and quality of life in individuals with type 2 diabetes (Yu et al., 2018). Another study highlighted the benefits of combining TCM with conventional Western medicine, showing significant improvements in fasting blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, and overall clinical efficacy (Figure 1) (Ma et al., 2023). Moreover, TCM constitution-based dietary regimes have been shown to be effective in managing not only diabetes but also its complications, such as diabetic kidney disease and cardiovascular issues (Liu et al., 2022; Wang et al., 2023). Therefore, TCM constitution identification is not only a diagnostic tool but also a strategic approach to personalized medicine, offering a holistic and integrative method for diabetes management. 3 TCM Etiology and Pathogenesis of Diabetes 3.1 TCM understanding of diabetes (Xiaoke Disease) Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a long history of recognizing and treating diabetes, known in TCM as "Xiaoke disease." The term "Xiaoke" translates to "wasting and thirsting," which aptly describes the primary symptoms of diabetes, such as excessive thirst and weight loss. TCM views diabetes not as a single disease but as a complex syndrome resulting from various internal imbalances. According to TCM theory, diabetes is primarily caused by deficiencies in yin and qi, leading to an imbalance in the body's internal environment (Li et al., 2019; Bai et al., 2021)
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