Dietary Intake of Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Measured Using the Modified Block Food Frequency Questionnaire

Abstract

Diet is fundamental in the overall management of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Few studies have described the dietary intake of Canadians with T2D. This study examined the baseline dietary intake of participants of the Healthy Eating and Active Living for Diabetes in Primary Care Networks (HEALD-PCN) study using a modified 55-item Block Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). A total of 196 individuals (51% women), mean age 59.6 years and BMI 33.6 kg/m2 were included. Overall, mean caloric intake was estimated to be 1286 kcals (95% CI, 1220, 1351) and was higher in men (1363 kcals) compared with women (1211 kcals; p=0.02). Mean carbohydrate and protein intakes were 594 kcals (95% CI, 562, 627) and 241 kcals (95% CI 229, 254), respectively. Mean fat intake was 498 kcals (95% CI 455, 540) for men and 442 kcals (95% CI 408, 476) for women (p=0.04). Mean daily consumption of fruits and vegetables were 1.6 (95% CI, 1.5, 1.8) and 1.8 (95% CI 1.7, 1.9) cup equivalents/person/day, respectively. Overall, mean fibre intake was 13.0 g/day (95% CI 12.3, 13.8); there were no differences between men and women. Adults with T2D reported consuming a diet low in fruits and vegetables and dietary fibre. Men reported higher intakes of dietary fat and total energy. Overall, the Block FFQ may have underestimated energy intake however, these results suggest targeted dietary counselling for men living with T2D should be considered.