Effects of a Self-regulation Program on Low Glycemic Index Consuming for Blood Glucose Control in Uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Overweight Patients at Muang District, Samut Songkhram Province

Abstract

This quasi-experimental study aimed to examine the effects of a self-regulation program promoting low glycemic index (GI) food consumption on blood sugar control among uncontrolled and overweight type 2 diabetes patients in the urban area of Samut Songkhram Province. The sample consisted of 60 individuals aged 30 to 59, residing in the urban community of Samut Songkhram, who were medically diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes for no more than 10 years. The participants were divided into an experimental group (30 participants) and a control group (30 participants).The research instruments included: 1) A self-regulation program for low-glycemic index food consumption, developed based on Bandura’s self-regulation theory, implemented over 8 weeks, and consisting of: self-observation, decision-making and self-reaction 2) A questionnaire to assess knowledge of low-glycemic index foods and low glycemic index (GI) food consumption behaviors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics independent t-tests, and paired t-test.

The results revealed that, after participating in the program, the experimental group demonstrated significantly higher knowledge of low glycemic index food consumption and improved and low glycemic index (GI) food consumption behaviors compared to pre-program levels and the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the experimental group showed a significant reduction in body mass index (BMI) and blood sugar levels compared to pre-program levels and the control group (p < 0.05).

Based on these findings, healthcare professionals in primary care settings are encouraged to implement this program to enhance the self-management capacity of diabetes patients in controlling BMI and blood sugar levels within the normal range.