Developing a conceptual model for understanding nutritional problems and their negative impacts on quality of life among Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this study was to obtain an in-depth understanding of nutritional problems and concerns among patients with type 2 diabetes and explored the negative impacts of those nutrition issues on health outcomes. Design: A qualitative research method was used. Methods: Twenty-one adult patients with type 2 diabetes participated in a semi structured interview. Recordings were transcribed verbatim, and content analysis was used to identify themes. Results: Four themes emerged from the analysis to represent nutritional problems and negative impacts: nutrition literacy, sociocultural aspects of nutrition, nutrition behaviours, and negative health outcomes. Public Contributions: The study promoted further understanding of nutrition issues and negative impacts among Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes. Personal, social, cultural and religious factors should all be taken into consideration when promoting nutrition care.