Motivational factors and support systems for optimal diabetes nutritional management: a qualitative study on the experiences of individuals living with diabetes in Ghana

BACKGROUND: Optimal diabetes self-management by individuals living with the condition is associated with improved quality of life, proper glycaemic control, and reduced mortality rates. However, individuals living with diabetes mellitus can self-manage their condition effectively when they are well-motivated and supported. This study sought to explore the motivational factors and support systems individuals living with diabetes mellitus rely on to manage their diet. METHODS: This study employed an exploratory descriptive design with a qualitative approach. The purposive sampling approach was used to recruit fifteen participants, who were attending clinic at a teaching hospital. The participants were interviewed on one-on-one basis, and the data gathered was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Two main themes, namely, motivational factors for optimal diabetes nutritional management and support systems for optimal diabetes nutritional management, emerged from the data gathered with seven sub-themes (two sub-themes with six sub-sub-themes for the first theme, and five sub-themes for the second theme). The participants of this study appeared to be well-motivated intrinsically and extrinsically with factors such as longevity and dependance on God, as well as had adequate support systems such as family support to enable them engage in optimal diabetes nutritional management. Nonetheless, the support systems were not incorporated into the management of their condition by the health professionals caring for them. CONCLUSIONS: Participants in this study were adequately motivated to practice proper nutritional management and had varied support systems including family support and diabetes peer support groups to do so. Thus, there is the need for health professionals to explore ways of integrating the support systems of individuals living with diabetes into their management to ensure positive health outcomes.