The effect of mindful eating on dietary behaviour and fasting blood glucose in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients

Abstract

Diet plays a pivotal role in the comprehensive therapy for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus, contributing significantly to maintaining stable glycemic control. Mindful Eating, as an intervention, focuses on enhancing dietary behavior by directing attention, thoughts, and feelings towards eating activities. This study aimed to investigate the impact of mindful eating on dietary behavior and fasting blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Employing a quasi-experimental method with a pretest-posttest control group design, the study included a sample of 63 participants (selected through convenience sampling). Data collection utilized the Personal Diabetes Questionnaire (PDQ) and a glucometer. Statistical analysis involved Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney, and Independent T-tests. The findings revealed that mindful eating exercises had a significant influence on dietary behavior (p = 0.025) and fasting blood glucose levels (p = 0.033). The practice of mindful eating led to notable improvements in dietary behavior and ensured controlled fasting blood glucose levels by the study's conclusion. Incorporating mindful eating exercises into eating patterns is recommended as a crucial aspect of diabetes management, aiming to enhance dietary behavior and sustain stable glycemic control.