Feeding in adults with type II diabetes mellitus in three public hospitals in Cundinamarca, Colombia

Introduction: Type II diabetes mellitus (DMII) is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality both worldwide and in Colombia. It mainly affects men and women over 45 years of age. Inadequate control of this disease can generate greater health complications making it one of the most costly diseases in the country. Treatment includes activities other than glycemic control and requires constant monitoring by medical personnel and educational processes directed at the patient and his or her family. Objective: To characterize the feeding of patients with DMII in three public hospitals of Cundinamarca. Materials and methods: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study of 212 patients that analyzed sociodemographic characteristics, frequency of consumption and feeding practices. Results: Most of the population was over 45 years old and had a low educational level. In total, 52% had a dietary plan, but only 8.9% received nutritional guidance from a nutritionist. The consumption of carbohydrates predominated, with low consumption of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The consumption of sugars was lower in patients with a dietary plan (p <0.05). Conclusions: Most of the patients did not have an adequate nutrition; moreover, there was low adherence to dietary treatment, weakness in nutritional counseling and barriers to food access. These results can contribute to improving policies for the prevention and control of DMII and strategies based on the sociocultural context of the patients.