Lifestyle patterns and dietary habits of patients living with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending primary healthcare facilities in Limpopo province, South Africa

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) affects millions globally, including nearly two million South African adults, with increased projections by 2045. Objectives: To assess lifestyle patterns and dietary habits of patients attending primary healthcare facilities in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Design: This cross-sectional study assessed the sociodemographic profile, clinical data, lifestyle patterns, and dietary habits of patients living with T2DM. A structured researcher-administered questionnaire was used to collect data in Sepedi. Data were analysed descriptively using STATA 18 SE. Setting: Community health centres and clinics in Blouberg Municipality. Participants: 225 consecutively sampled adults living with T2DM, aged ≥ 20 years. Results: Most participants were over 60 years old (60%), female (72.44%), and had poor glycaemic control (62%). Overweight and obesity were 37.27% and 32.73%, respectively. Most women (88.28%) had high-risk waist circumferences. Tobacco and alcohol use were 13.78% and 5.78%, respectively. Most engaged in light activity (88%), and 49.78% spend 4–7 hours daily sitting at work. Daily fruit consumption was very low (4.89%), and 53.22% consumed vegetables 2–3 times per week. White porridge was the staple carbohydrate (76%), often consumed in double portions (52%). Conversely, 68.89% avoided sugary drinks, salt, and fats, and 90.67% consumed home-prepared meals. Conclusion: Our study revealed that T2DM is prevalent among elderly women, with low fruit and vegetable intake and high carbohydrate consumption possibly linked to affordability and unavailability, rather than non-compliance with dietary recommendations. Socioeconomically tailored dietary advice, promoting vegetable gardening and physical activity among patients, as well as continuous education of healthcare professionals and community health workers, should be considered.