Factors influencing the consumption of fruits and vegetables in diabetic patients based on Pender’s health promotion model

To control blood sugar and prevent complications related to diabetes, eating fruits and vegetables in standard amounts is recommended. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors affecting the consumption of fruits and vegetables in diabetic patients based on the Pender health promotion model.

This cross‑sectional study was conducted on 260 diabetic patients in Sirjan; one of the cities of Kerman in Iran in 2020. To collect data, a researcher‑made questionnaire of Pender’s Health Promotion Model and a standard Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System questionnaire were used to measure fruit and vegetable consumption. Data were analyzed using SPSS24 software. Data were analyzed using t‑test, Pearson correlation coefficient, linear regression, and path analysis. Significance level <0.05 was considered.

The study showed that 71.5% of patients consumed fruits three or more times and 52.3% consumed vegetables per week. Employment, income, education, and gender were significantly associated with fruit and vegetable consumption (P < 0.05). Perceived barriers (P < 0.0001, β =0.23), self‑efficacy (P < 0.0001, β =0.32), and commitment to action plan (P = 0.002, β =0.20) were the main predictors of fruit and vegetable consumption.

In this study, self‑efficacy was the strongest predictor of fruit and vegetable consumption in diabetic patients. Therefore, it is necessary to consider health education as well as health promotion interventions based on these variables is considered to increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables for diabetic patients.