Equitable prevention of Type 2 diabetes requires attention to behavioral and lifestyle factors that influence health. Eating behaviors, as modifiable determinants, offer an opportunity for patient-centered and humanistic interventions in primary care.This study aimed to investigate the relationship between eating behaviors and the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes among adults.This cross-sectional and descriptive study was conducted between 15 June and 15 September 2024 at the Family Medicine Outpatient Clinic of SBÜ Atatürk Sanatorium Training and Research Hospital. Non-diabetic adults aged 18–65 years were included, while individuals with diabetes, psychiatric disorders, or diagnosed eating disorders were excluded. Participants completed a Sociodemographic Information Form, the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISK), and the Adult Eating Behavior Questionnaire (AEBQ).A total of 272 participants (mean age: 41.3 ± 12.0) were included. Participants were grouped as normoglycemic or prediabetic based on glycemic status. Significant differences were found between the groups in age, body weight, and waist circumference. AEBQ “Hunger” and “Emotional Overeating” scores were significantly higher in the prediabetic group compared with the normoglycemic group. Conversely, the “Slowness in Eating” score was higher among normoglycemic individuals. Several AEBQ subdimensions showed significant correlations with 10-year Type 2 diabetes risk scores. According to FINDRISK classification, individuals in the “High/Very High Risk” category had higher “Hunger” and “Emotional Overeating” scores and lower “Slowness in Eating” scores. The predictive capacity of AEBQ for identifying prediabetes was compared with FINDRISK.Emotional eating, external eating, and rapid eating behaviors were identified as important behavioral factors associated with increased risk of Type 2 diabetes. These results support existing evidence that eating behavior patterns contribute meaningfully to metabolic risk. Incorporating eating behavior assessment into routine primary care evaluations may improve early identification of at-risk individuals and support preventive strategies.Promote early identification of high-risk individuals by integrating FINDRISK into routine primary care. Expand psychological support programs addressing emotional eating. Encourage physical activity through community campaigns. Develop targeted preventive interventions for high-risk groups, especially women and older adults. Support healthy eating through individualized plans emphasizing high-fiber, low–glycemic index foods, structured meals, slower eating, and portion control.