[Nutritional status of patients with type 1 and 2 diabetes in Belgium]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the daily caloric intake as well as the distribution of carbohydrates, fat, protein and alcohol in a Belgian population with type 1 and 2 diabetes, in the view of the recent ADA recommendations. Dietary intake and repartition of nutriments was based upon the three 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 and 2 diabetic patients. They emphasize the need for more (and repeated) practical diabetic information in order to improve daily nutritional habits.