Emphasis on Carbohydrates May Negatively Influence Dietary Patterns in Youth With Type 1 Diabetes
- Sanjeev N. Mehta, MD, MPH1,
- Denise L. Haynie, PHD, MPH2,
- Laurie A. Higgins, MS, RD, LDN, CDE1,
- Natalie N. Bucey, MA1,
- Alisha J. Rovner, PHD2,
- Lisa K. Volkening, MA1,
- Tonja R. Nansel, PHD2 and
- Lori M.B. Laffel, MD, MPH1
- 1Joslin Diabetes Center, Section of Genetics and Epidemiology, Boston, Massachusetts;
- 2Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Prevention Research Branch, Bethesda, Maryland.
- Corresponding author: Lori Laffel, lori.laffel{at}joslin.harvard.edu.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess perceptions of healthful eating and the influence of diabetes management on dietary behaviors among youth with type 1 diabetes and parents.
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Youth with type 1 diabetes (n = 35), ages 8–21 years, and parents participated in focus groups. Focus group recordings were transcribed and coded into themes. Clinical data were abstracted from the electronic medical record.
RESULTS Central topics were perceptions of healthful eating and the impact of diabetes management on diet. An emphasis on limiting postprandial glycemic excursions occasionally contradicted the traditional perception of healthful eating, which emphasized consumption of nutrient-dense whole foods in favor of prepackaged choices. Whereas fixed regimens required more rigid diets, basal-bolus regimens provided more opportunities for unhealthful eating. Most youth perceived “refined” grains as more healthful grains.
CONCLUSIONS For youth with type 1 diabetes and parents, an emphasis on carbohydrate quantity over quality may distort beliefs and behaviors regarding healthful eating.
Footnotes
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The costs of publication of this article were defrayed in part by the payment of page charges. This article must therefore be hereby marked “advertisement” in accordance with 18 U.S.C. Section 1734 solely to indicate this fact.
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- Received July 16, 2009.
- Accepted September 2, 2009.
- © 2009 by the American Diabetes Association.
