"RELACIÓN ENTRE LA CALIDAD DE DIETA Y LAS COMPLICACIONES EN PACIENTES DIABÉTICOS ECUATORIANOS"

Abstract

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is an increasing global disease that constitutes a public health issue, especially in Ecuador, where diet quality plays a crucial role in preventing complications. It is estimated that 537 million people aged 20 to 79 live with T2DM, and this number is expected to rise to 783 million by 2045. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between diet quality and the incidence of diabetic complications in a cohort of Ecuadorian patients. Therefore, a prospective, cross-sectional, observational, and analytical study was conducted at the "Grupo Infante" Foundation in Huaquillas, El Oro, evaluating the dietary patterns of 100 patients with T2DM and their association with complications. A food frequency questionnaire was used to analyze the relationship between the intake of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and alcohol and these complications. The results indicated that a high carbohydrate intake is associated with a greater risk of amputations, while a high protein intake is significantly related to an increased risk of nephropathy, and low protein consumption predisposes to diabetic neuropathy. Additionally, the consumption of unsaturated fats showed a protective effect against cardiovascular diseases, unlike saturated fats. This study highlights the importance of a balanced diet in preventing and managing complications in diabetic patients, suggesting the need for personalized dietary strategies to improve the health and well-being of this population.