Eating habits of patients with diabetes and / or arterial hypertension belonging to municipal health centers of the city of Córdoba

Abstract

Abstract: 

Analyze eating habits of people with diabetes and / or arterial hypertension, according to sex and age, who attend municipal health centers in the city of Córdoba, Argentina. Observational cross-sectional study. Over 18 years of age with a presumptive diagnosis of arterial hypertension (I10-I15 of the ICD.10) and / or diabetes were included, during June to December 2019. Convenience sampling in patients from the public system (n = 19). Selected instruments: food consumption frequency questionnaire, questionnaire with open and dichotomous questions regarding their eating habits based on WHO and ENFR recommendations. Statistical analysis: difference in proportions; Irvin Fisher test for categorical variables, t test and Kruskal Wallis for measurable variables. 95% confidence level. The ethical safeguards correspond to the requirements of the CIEIS-HNC. The diet was characterized by a low intake of vegetables, fruits and water; almost zero consumption of dried fruits, nuts, seeds, fish, whole grains, legumes. Average daily intakes of 2 fruits were found ± 0.39, 288g ± 31.06 of vegetables, 197mL ± 42.97 of milk. Daily bread consumption and weekly dairy intake. The meats chosen were semi-fatty or fatty cuts. 94% eat 3 or 4 meals a day (p = 0.03), 89.5% eat breakfast. 74% do not look at the sodium (p = 0.0007) or sugar (p = 0.03) content on food labels, 58% add sugar to infusions, 15% use table salt and 68% in cooking. High intakes of ultra-processed foods, baked goods and sausages were observed. Hypertensive men and younger adults have less healthy habits. The diet of people with diabetes and / or high blood pressure studied is characterized by a low and monotonous intake of protective foods rich in vitamins and fibers; with eating habits that are far from current recommendations.