In a nutshell
This study aimed to look at the differences in the diets of people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) with and without diabetic retinopathy (DR; eye damage). The main finding of the study was that a higher fat intake was associated with lower frequency of DR.
Some background
DR is a type of eye disease that can occur in patients with T1D. If it is not detected and treated early, it may result in blindness.
A healthy diet is an important part of the management of T1D. The relationship between DR and dietary intake is not known.
Methods & findings
This study included 243 patients, both with DR (103) and without DR (140). Diets were assessed by using a food questionnaire.
Patients with DR were more likely to be older, to have a higher blood pressure, worse sugar control and to be diagnosed with T1D for longer.
Patients with DR had a lower total fat intake. Patients with DR also had a lower intake of mono-unsaturated fatty acids, oleic acid (Omega-9 fatty acid) and vitamin E. Patients with DR were more likely to eat more bread and less vegetable fat.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that patients with a higher total fat intake had a lower frequency of DR.
The fine print
The differences between patients with and without DR were not statistically significant. Also, this study was relatively small. Therefore, larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Published By :
Nutrients
Date :
Aug 29, 2018
