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Impact of nutritional profile assessment on hygienic and dietary management among patients with type 2 diabetes: A cross-sectional study in Morocco
Introduction: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder and one of the most prevalent endocrine diseases worldwide. Its incidence continues to increase steadily, representing a major challenge for health systems. People with diabetes are required to adopt strict hygienic and dietary measures in order to reduce the risk of long-term complications. Nutritional management is the key component of diabetes care. The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional profile and dietary habits of people with type 2 diabetes. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among patients with type 2 diabetes using a structured questionnaire specifically designed to assess nutritional status and eating behaviors. The questionnaire explored dietary knowledge, meal patterns, snack consumption, and lifestyle habits. The frequency of food intake and daily and weekly dietary practices were analyzed. Results: The study included 300 patients followed in a public hospital. The mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.44 ± 3.4 kg/m². Hypertension was reported in 45.7% of participants, and the mean blood glucose level was 1.85 ± 0.64 g/L. Obesity was identified in 10.6% of patients. Significant associations were observed between snack food choices and gender (p = 0.05), daily meal frequency and BMI (p = 0.012), as well as between skipped meals and BMI (p = 0.02). Notably, only 31% of participants considered diet to be an essential factor in diabetes management. Conclusion: From a nutritional perspective, these findings reveal gaps in dietary awareness and adherence among patients with type 2 diabetes. Therapeutic nutrition education remains essential to improve self-management
Keywords: Type 2 diabetes, dietary management, nutritional profile, eating habits, nutritional therapeutic education, Morocco
