Knowledge and use of the food label among senior women in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Food selection is a key component in the management of diabetes. The foods selected affect the caloric and nutrient composition of the diet and blood glucose levels among people with diabetes. The nutrition information on the food label can guide decisions for food purchases. Whether senior women with diabetes use and comprehend the nutrition information on the food label has not been determined. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess knowledge and beliefs about the food label and diabetes management among women with type 2 diabetes mellitus =65 years of age. Focus groups were conducted and participants (n=24) completed a knowledge test about the food label. Analysis involved extensive review of the videotapes and transcripts of the focus groups. Participants reported that they referred to the nutrition information on the label when grocery shopping. Yet, comprehension of terms and product claims on the label was poor. The mean score on the food label knowledge test was only 49%. Misconceptions about the nutritional management of diabetes also were noted. Thus, senior women with diabetes need additional education about the food label to facilitate application of the information in meal planning and to manage diabetes successfully.