Effect of health behaviors on metabolic control in patients with type 2 diabetes

Background
Diabetes is a chronic and progressive disease affecting all areas of life. It requires not only pharmacological treatment, but more importantly lifestyle changes, weight reduction, and dietary modifications. Improperly treated, it causes numerous complications that can lead to disability and even death.

Material and methods
This study aimed to evaluate the effect health behaviors have on metabolic compensation in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study consisted of 116 patients. The inclusion criteria included type 2 diabetics between the ages of 40 and 65 who were diagnosed by a diabetologist for a minimum of one year. The KomPAN questionnaire, PSS 10 scales, International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and analysis of medical records were used to evaluate these effects. Of the 116 patients, 104 (54 women and 50 men) met the inclusion criteria and were used in data analysis.

Results
No patient in our study met all the criteria for metabolic compensation of type 2 diabetes. Postprandial glucose concentrations were the best-compensated parameter. Whereas, LDL concentrations were the least compensated parameter. In individuals with fewer unhealthy dietary practices compensated more significantly for their diabetes. Seventy-eight percent of women and 90% of men with BMIs consistent with stages I and II overweight or obesity had abnormal fasting glucose levels.

Conclusions
The factors that significantly impact diabetes compensation are diet, stress levels, and physical activity levels. The assessment of a patient’s nutritional knowledge correlates with their dietary assessment.