Objective We investigated the role of family support in glycemic control by nutritional self-care behavior of Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes.
Methods One hundred twelve Japanese out-patients with type 2 diabetes were recruited for the study at Kansai Electric Power Hospital. Interviews were conducted and HbA1c and triglyceride levels were measured.
Results HbA1c levels were significantly related to family nutritional support. Patients under 60 years old with family nutritional support showed significantly lower HbA1c than patients without family support (p<0.05). Female patients with family support showed significantly lower HbA1c than those without family support (p<0.05). In addition, male patients with family support showed significantly lower triglyceride levels than those without family support (p<0.05). In male patients, those who were supported by cooking or buying light meals showed significantly lower HbA1c than those who were supported by advice or encouragement (p<0.05). The frequency of support (every day, 2-3 days, 1 week) showed similar outcomes in glycemic control. Patients who appreciate the support and follow the advice showed lower HbA1c (6.88 ± 0.22%) than (7.43 ± 0.23%) patients who appreciate the advice but sometimes feel emotional barriers.
Conclusion Family nutritional support is useful in improving metabolic outcome of diabetic patients. Self-care practice in disease management should be carefully adjusted to the family setting of type 2 diabetic patients. Emotional barriers to family support may affect the metabolic consequences, especially in the Japanese elderly.