Menus prescribed for diabetes management by Malawian referral hospitals are loaded with calories from carbohydrates and may worsen diabetes condition.

This article evaluates the macronutrient composition and energy content of six diabetic patient menus prescribed by referral hospitals in Malawi, including Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH) and St Joseph Mission Hospital. The study found that all menus provide a disproportionately high amount of carbohydrates (67.9–81.3% of total energy), exceeding recommended levels for diabetes management, while protein and fat contributions are comparatively low. Most menus also supply total calories above the advised intake for diabetic patients aiming for weight loss, potentially promoting postprandial hyperglycemia and weight gain. The authors suggest that hospital menus be revised to reduce carbohydrate content below 60% of total energy and increase fats and proteins to approximate a 50:25:25 ratio of carbohydrates, fats, and protein, respectively, to better support diabetes control.