Contribution of nutritional profile assessment to the hygienic-dietary management of type 2 diabetic patients: A cross-sectional study in Kenitra city (Morocco)

Abstract

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes is one of the most serious endocrine disorders, with its global prevalence increasing steadily each year as more cases are reported worldwide. Once diabetes has been diagnosed, the patient must follow rigorous hygienic and dietary management to limit the risk of developing complications. The aim of our study is to assess the nutritional profile and dietary habits of diabetic people. Methods: We use a questionnaire designed for diabetes people to assess their nutritional profile and eating habits. The study assessed the information and dietary culture pursued. We examined the daily and weekly frequency of dietary and lifestyle habits in diabetic patients. Results: Our present study, carried out on a cohort of 300 patients in a public hospital; in Kenitra city, specifically targets the nutritional profile to highlight the dietary habits; age (56.51±13.11 years), BMI (26.44±3.4 kg/m²), HTA (45.7%), blood glucose (1.85±0.64 g/l) and glycemic hemoglobin (8.09±1.7%). We observe that 10.6% of diabetic patients are classified as obese. Moreover, 51.2% of patients reported consuming four meals per day. There was mainly a statistical difference between type of snack foods and gender (p=0.05), between daily meal frequency and BMI (p=0.012), between the type of meal missed and BMI (p=0.02). It’s also worth noting that only 31% of the patients believe that diet can be an important factor in diabetes control, and only 19% are sufficiently informed about the nutritional habits of diabetic people. Conclusion: From a nutritional perspective, eliminating only added sugar or highly sweetened foods is not enough to control blood glucose levels or to cure diabetes. Therapeutic nutritional education remains essential for diabetes people to avoid chronic pathologies likely to lead to fatal co-morbidities.