Aim of the study: To analyse the association of trans fatty acid (TFA) consumption with the risk of type 2 diabetes and lifestyle in a South European population.
Methods: Data were obtained from two population-based cross-sectional surveys conducted in Gerona (Spain) in 2000 and 2005. The present analysis included 7,774 free-living Spanish men and women aged 35-74 years. Diet was assessed by a validated food frequency questionnaire. Fasting blood sugar was measured and history of diabetes recorded.
Results: trans Fatty acid intake was relatively low in our study population (1.5 g d(-1) for women and 1.8 g d(-1) for men). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed a null association between TFA intake and risk of type 2 diabetes in men and women. Total energy intake, alcohol consumption and the prevalence of smoking increased across quartiles of TFA intake. An inverse association was found between TFA intake and the consumption of vegetables, fruit, fish, legumes, white bread and olive oil in both genders (p < 0.001) after adjusting for energy intake. In contrast, intakes of meat, sausages and pastry products increased across quartiles of TFA intake in both genders (p < 0.001).
Conclusions: trans Fatty acid intake was not associated with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes. Higher TFA intake was associated with less healthy lifestyle and dietary habits in both sexes.