Evaluation of the knowledge level and usage status of type 2 diabetic persons about sweetener and diabetes foods

This study was conducted between October and December 2020 to determine the use of diabetic foods and sweeteners, which products they prefer, the level of knowledge about diabetic foods and sweeteners and the frequency of consumption of individuals with type 2 diabetes. The research was conducted on a total of 92 diabetic individuals, 76 of whom are women and 16 are men, aged between 30-50. A questionnaire form consisting of four parts and 49 questions was used as data collection tool. The average height of diabetics is 163.5 ± 8.88, the average weight is 87.99 ± 16.44, the average BMI is 33.03 ± 6.32. When the BMI values are examined, 9.8% are normal weight, 20.7% are overweight and 69.6% are obese. While 89.1% of diabetic individuals participating in this study consume diet / diabetic foods, 10.9% do not. When choosing diet / diabetic foods, respectively; It has been determined that they pay attention to brand, price, quality and content. It was determined that 17.4% of diabetics used sweeteners, 69.6% did not, and 13% used and quit. 10.5% stated that the price was high, 43.4% thought it was harmful to health, 15.8% stated that they did not like the taste and 30.3% did not use sweeteners for other reasons. As a result of the data obtained from the study, the rate of having a good level of knowledge about diet/diabetic foods and sweeteners was found to be significantly higher than the others (p <0.05). In addition, it was observed that the average age of those with medium level of knowledge was statistically significantly higher than those with good level (p <0.05). The ratio of paying attention to the amount of sweetener used while consuming diet/diabetic foods (26.3%) of university / college graduates was found to be statistically significantly higher than primary school (0%) and secondary school (0%) graduates (p1:0.039; p2:0.027; p<0.05). It is important to consume diet or diabetic foods by paying attention to the correct purpose and amount. It should be aimed to raise the awareness of the society and increase the level of knowledge about diet or diabetic foods and sweeteners.