Integrating Nutritional Education and Social Support to Optimize Medication Adherence in Diabetes Care: A Systematic Review
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Abstract
Diabetes mellitus requires continuous self-management, including medication adherence, dietary control, lifestyle modification, and regular clinical follow-up. However, poor medication adherence remains a major challenge that affects glycemic control and increases the risk of diabetes-related complications. Nutritional education and social support are increasingly recognized as essential strategies for strengthening adherence behaviors among diabetic patients. Nutritional education improves patients’ understanding of the relationship between diet, medication use, blood glucose control, and long-term health outcomes. Meanwhile, social support from family members, peers, caregivers, and healthcare professionals can enhance motivation, reduce psychological burden, and provide practical assistance in daily treatment routines. This systematic review aims to synthesize current evidence on the role of nutritional education and social support in optimizing medication adherence among patients with diabetes. The review focuses on intervention types, delivery methods, adherence outcomes, and factors influencing effectiveness. By integrating educational and psychosocial perspectives, this review highlights how patient-centered approaches may improve diabetes self-management and support sustainable medication-taking behavior. The findings are expected to inform healthcare professionals, diabetes educators, and policymakers in designing comprehensive interventions that combine nutrition-focused education with structured social support to improve adherence and health outcomes in diabetes care.
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