Scientists from The Ohio State University and Abbott found that half of the adults surveyed living with diabetes did not consume the daily recommended intake of protein, which is linked to lower diet quality, increased carbohydrate intake, and more health issues.
The study highlights protein intake as an essential and often overlooked consideration in meeting the nutritional needs of people with diabetes.
The research is published in Nutrients and was conducted by Christopher Taylor et al.
Diabetes is associated with a risk of developing low muscle mass, which can lead to falls and other injuries.
That’s why protein consumption—and awareness of the need for it—is critical to maintaining muscle mass and preserving functional mobility, which can help people living with diabetes live stronger overall lives.
In the study, the team examined data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) collected between 2005 and 2016 from more than 23,000 adults in the U.S.
They found people living with diabetes who did not consume the daily recommendation of protein on the day of intake reported a higher prevalence of physical limitations, including difficulty completing basic movements, such as stooping, crouching, kneeling, standing for long periods, and pushing or pulling large objects.
Adults with diabetes who met protein recommendations had better overall diet quality, more closely meeting dietary recommendations for total daily intake of vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and added sugars.
People with diabetes who exhibited low protein intake showed significantly poorer nutrient density, lower overall diet quality, and consumed 12.5% more carbohydrates, which may negatively impact glucose levels.
This study highlights the importance of the quality of foods in our diet as well as the quantity of nutrients we need daily—both of which have a significant impact on health and mobility, especially for people living with diabetes.
Nutrition education will help people successfully manage a condition like diabetes, emphasizing the need to achieve a well-rounded diet with the proper nutrients and avoid foods that are detrimental to optimal health.
If you care about diabetes, please read studies about a cure for type 2 diabetes, and these vegetables could protect against kidney damage in diabetes.
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