Nutritional intake of type 1 and 2 diabetic patients

The aim of this study was to evaluate the daily caloric intake as well as t he distribution of carbohydrates, fat, protein and alcohol in a Belgian pop ulation with type 1 and 2 diabetes, in the view of the recent ADA recommand ations. Dietary intake and repartition of nutriments was based upon the thr ee days evaluation recall. Our results show excessive caloric intake in type 2 diabetic patients when compared with type 1 subjects (2652 +/- 850 vs. 2271 +/- 546 Kcal/day; P < 0,005). We also show an inadequate repartition of carbohydrates (41 +/- 5 and 39 +/ - 6% in type 1 and 2 diabetic patients, respectively) and lipids (39 +/- 5 and 39 +/- 7%). Protein intake was 16% of the total caloric amount. Fibers intake was adequate. High consumption of alcohol was assessed in both type 1 and 2 diabetic patients. In conclusion, our data evidenced several pitfalls in the diet of type 1 an d 2 diabetic patients. They emphasize the need for more land repeated) prac tical diabetic information in order to improve daily nutritional habits.