Dietary Knowledge, Attitude and Adherence among Diabetic Patients attending Outpatient Clinics in Selected Hospitals in Benin Metropolis

Diet is a crucial aspect of diabetes management and healthy eating is one of the main focus in preventing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Despite the growing evidence supporting the role of dietary approaches in diabetes management, studies indicate low adherence to dietary recommendations among diabetic patients. In Nigeria, research indicates low adherence to dietary recommendations and inadequate intake of macronutrients, fruits and vegetables among diabetic patients. This study aimed to assess the dietary knowledge attitude and adherence among diabetic patients attending outpatient clinics in Faith Mediplex and Edo Specialist hospitals in Benin City, Edo State. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used among 203 type 2 diabetic patients with systematic random sampling. Quantitative data was collected using a self- administered questionnaire and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. The findings revealed that dietary knowledge among diabetic patients was poor. Although their attitudes were positive, however, they had poor dietary adherence regarding diabetic dietary management. Findings also revealed major factors affecting adherence to dietary management among diabetic patients attending outpatient clinics in hospitals in Benin City such as food preferences, income, financial constraints, inadequate knowledge and medication. This study highlighted the importance of proper health education to improve dietary knowledge and practices that change patient outcomes and therefore recommended the conduct of regular workshops and seminars, health professionals training and retraining, improved access to health care facilities and community engagement programmes focusing on promoting healthier lifestyles, exercise and dietary improvements.