Exploring the importance of nutrition and exercise in diabetes care: A qualitative study of male patients in Senwabarwana, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

Two of the most important aspects of managing diabetes are diet and physical activity. The ability to influence conditions, avert potential health problems, and maintain a healthy way of life are all strongly connected with one's level of knowledge in this field. Inadequately informed populations are disproportionately affected by the rise of diabetes and other chronic diseases. However, the extent to which diabetics, especially those in rural settings, are aware of how best to control their illness through diet and exercise is unknown. This study was undertaken to evaluate the knowledge on the importance of diet and physical activity among male diabetic patients. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected with unstructured and individualised interviews from a purposive sample of 15 male diabetics from Senwabarwana, Limpopo Province of South Africa. Tesch's eight-step inductive, descriptive, and open coding technique was used to examine the data. Therespondents generally reported eating regularly, but in small quantities, and that they try to avoid food items high in sugar, salt, and fat. They were aware of the dangers of sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy diet. Most of them were unable to adhere to dietary and exercise treatment, despite knowing the importance of adherence, and risk of non-adherence. Individualised diabetics education plan guided by a multidisciplinary team should include recommendations for a healthy diet and habitual physical activity.