Relationship between Dietary habits, lifestyle risk factors and dysglycemia among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Al Madinah Al Munawara, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background and Aim : Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic global health condition that affects people of all ages at an alarming rate. It's more widespread in Middle Eastern countries, especially Saudi Arabia which has the second-highest rate of diabetes in the Middle East, according to the World Health Organization. The purpose of the study is to investigate the relationship between dietary habits, lifestyle factors, and dysglycemia among type 2 diabetic patients in Al-Madinah Al-Munawara, Saudi Arabia. Subjects and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 281 type 2 diabetic patients aged between 20 and 65 years old via an online survey. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, dietary habits, physical activity, and other lifestyle data were collected from patients of Al Madinah's King Fahad Hospital in Al Madinah Al Munawara. Results: The highest age group of those surveyed was 41-65 years old. The majority (65.1%) were female. More than half of the surveyed population had university or college-level education. There was no association between family history and gender (p=0.631). There was a significant association between gender and intake of sweets (p= 0.001), red meat (p= 0.002), red tea (p= 0.013), green tea (p= 0.031), and consumption of grains (p= 0.027). Male patients were more active compared to the female group (14.3% vs. 4.9%), (p=0.043). Conclusion: Food habits influenced hyperglycemia. Female hyperglycemic patients had considerably greater rates of insufficient physical activity and sweet consumption. Male dysglycemic patients consumed considerably more red meat and poultry. Future consideration should be given to increasing awareness and knowledge of dietary intake and lifestyle factors and their importance to prevent future complications.