Perceived and actual knowledge of diet by individuals with non-insulin-dependent diabetes

A study was conducted to investigate both the perceived and actual knowledge of diet by 101 individuals with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). A survey instrument was developed containing three sections: perceptions of diet knowledge, demonstrated knowledge of diet, and demographic information. Perceived and actual knowledge of diet in the study group were compared with the following variables: years of education, types of diabetes regimen, participation in care, recency of dietary instruction, understanding of diet, and levels of self blood glucose monitoring (SBGM). Analysis indicated significant differences for knowledge and levels of education, perceptions and knowledge and recency of instruction, perceptions and knowledge and understanding of diet, and perceptions and self blood glucose monitoring. A positive linear relationship was noted between perceptions and actual knowledge of the diabetic diet.