Dietary Nutrients Intake and Type 2 Diabetes in Chinese: Data from China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS)

Objective: To identify the differences of dietary nutrients intake and lifestyle among diabetic and healthy people, and dietary risks of type 2 diabetes among Chinese adults.Methods: Using data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) in 2009, we selected 246 diabetic patients and 246 healthy people individually matched with patients on gender and age.The basic information, biochemical indicators and consecutive 3 days 24 h records of household food consumption were collected.The intake of nutrients was calculated according to the Chinese Food Composition Table Vol. 1, 2nd Edition.Results: Compared with the control group, diabetic patients had poorer glucose and lipid metabolism, liver and kidney function, and higher levels of inflammation.In terms of diet, the intake of fat and protein were higher in diabetic patients but all other nutrients, such as carbohydrate, dietary fiber and vitamins (except for Vitamin A) were lower compared with the control group.Conclusions: The changes in diet and behavior of diabetic patients after diagnosis are mainly reflected in reducing carbohydrate intake, smoking and alcohol intake, and relatively increasing fat and protein intake whereas still insufficient dietary fiber and vitamins intake.The overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome have not been improved, indicating that enhancing the health education of diabetes, especially improving diet structure is of great use in blocking the progress of the disease.