Relationship of Glycemic Control and Stages of Change for Fiber Intake in Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Cross-sectional Study

Background and Objectives: Increased consumption of fiber in the diet of diabetic patients is usually recommended for better diabetes control. Trans-theoretical model of health behavior has had positive results in diabetes consultations on healthcare and adherence to healthy eating. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between the stages of change based on fiber consumption and glycemic control in the patients with type 2 diabetes. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on126 individuals (aged 30-65 years) with type 2 diabetes selected from two diabetes care centers in Tehran, Iran. “Stages of change questionnaire” was completed, and dietary intake was determined by a three-day food record. Logistic regression was used to explore the relationship between the stages of change and glycemic control indices in these patients. P-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: The mean fiber intake in the patients with type 2 diabetes (10.62±3.19 g/kcal) was less than the minimum amount recommended by Dietary Reference Intake (DRI). Besides, most patients were in the maintenance (52%) and preparation (22.4%) stages. After adjustment for confounding factors, a positive significant relationship was observed between the blood glucose level and the action and maintenance stages. However, this relationship was contrary to the expected results. The largest part of fiber intake was related to fruits (~40%). Conclusions: Trans-theoretical model seems to be efficient for distinguishing the readiness of the patients with type 2 diabetes for change in their fiber intake behavior. Nevertheless, no association was found between the stages and glycemic control indices. Keywords: Stages of change, Dietary fiber, Type 2 diabetes