Determinants of Fruit and Vegetable Consumption in Type 2 Diabetics in Tehran

The world is facing a dramatic rise in the prevalence of diabetes, most of which is occurring in the low- and middle-income countries. This is having a major impact on the quality of life of hundreds of millions of people and their families. Furthermore, nutrition, especially intakes of fruit and vegetable have important effects on glycemic control and prevention of diabetic complications. The present study was designed to assess the fruit and vegetable consumption in type 2 diabetic patients and their relationship with socio-demographic factors in Tehran. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 367 type 2 diabetic patients. Fruit and vegetable consumption was determined, using 169-item food frequency questionnaire. Information on demography and socio-economic factors was obtained from related questionnaires. Vegetable consumption was significantly lower in retired or jobless patients (p=0.04), and higher in patients who had children (p=0.003). Also, fruit consumption was significantly higher in patients with 3 or less children. No significant association was observed between fruit or vegetable consumption and education levels, parent's job levels, household size, ethnicity, family income, food expense and duration of living in Tehran. Based on logistic regression, employment was significantly related to the consumption of vegetable (p=0.012).