Contribution of barriers to dietary intake in female patients with type 2 diabetes

Abstract

Purpose - Dietary adherence may potentially affect dietary intake. Besides, type 2 diabetes and obesity are closely inter-related. This paper aims to investigate the associations between barriers to dietary adherence and dietary intake among overweight/obese female patients with type 2 diabetes. Design/methodology/approach - In this cross-sectional study, 122 female patients with type 2 diabetes from Tabriz, Iran were recruited. All of them had received dietary recommendations from either a nutritionist or a physician. Weight, height and waist circumference were measured using standard methods. A 24-h dietary recall and food records assessed energy and macronutrient intake. Findings - The mean BMI of the participants was 32.2 +/- 4.3 kg/m(2), and the mean daily total energy intake was 1909.5 (218.7) kcal. To assess the associations between barriers to dietary adherence and dietary intake, analysis of variance was used. Analysis revealed significant positive associations between energy intake and the barrier factors situational barriers/difficulty resisting temptation [B (SE) = 42.11 (20.50), p = 0.042], difficulty with meals and snacks plan [B (SE) = 36.13 (12.78), p = 0.005] and small portion sizes [B (SE) = 25.35 (13.58), p = 0.029]. Originality/value - Diet has a key role in type 2 diabetes management. The results highlight the need for the barriers to be addressed in nutritional programs targeted for patients with type 2 diabetes. Thereby, level of adherence to the recommended program, eating habits and diabetes management could improve.