Dietary Patterns and Macro and Micro Nutrients Status of Newly Diagnosed Diabetes Patients

Abstract

Diabetes Mellitus is a metabolic disorder due to defective insulin secretion and/ action.The defect leads to abnormal metabolism of carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism. There are essential micro nutrients needed daily in trace quantities for the proper function of the body. Direct relationship between diabetes mellitus and these essential nutrients have been established in several research studies. However, for most sub-Saharan African countries including Ghana, data on effect of nutrient intakes in diabetes is limited.Eating habits and its impact on nutrient levels have not been sufficiently explored. The study aimed at assessing the eating patterns in addition to the micro and macro nutrient intake of newly diagnosed diabetes patients. The study was cross-sectional and was conducted at the National Diabetes Management and Research Center (NDMRC) located at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in the Accra Metropolis. After informed written consent the dietary patterns of 136 newly diagnosed diabetes patients were assessed using a structured questionnaire.More than half (55.1%) of the participants reported eating 3 meals daily and 67.6% of them consumed snacks daily. Total energy intake levels of participants were less than the recommended intakes. The frequency of fruits and vegetables consumption was low. The frequency of snacks, animal and animal products and starches, cereals and grains consumption were high weekly.Potassium intake was not adequate, majority had inadequate intake of sodium and selenium. Most of the participants had adequate intake of iron (69.1%), zinc (56.7%) and copper (84.1%). Majority of the participants (77.2%)did not meet their recommended intake for sodium and none met that for potassium.