<![CDATA[Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood sugar levels. Diet, the regulation of the amount, type, and schedule of food intake, is an important factor influencing the nutritional status and blood sugar control of older adults with diabetes mellitus. Objective: To examine the relationship between diet and blood sugar levels among older adults with diabetes mellitus at Simpang Tiga Community Health Center, Pekanbaru City. Methods: A quantitative study with a correlational, cross-sectional design was conducted. The sample comprised 81 older adults with diabetes mellitus who sought treatment at Simpang Tiga Community Health Center, Pekanbaru City, from 7 May to 1 June 2024, selected through accidental sampling. Diet was assessed using a dietary questionnaire, and blood sugar was measured using a glucometer. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test. Results: Most respondents had a good diet (54, 66.7%), while most had abnormal blood sugar levels (49, 60.5%). The chi-square test indicated a significant relationship between diet and blood sugar levels among older adults with diabetes mellitus (p < 0.001), with an odds ratio of 35.0. This estimate is unstable because only one respondent had a poor diet with a normal glucose level, so it should be interpreted with caution. Conclusion: Diet was significantly associated with blood sugar levels among older adults with diabetes mellitus at Simpang Tiga Community Health Center. Because the design was cross-sectional, this association does not establish that diet determines blood sugar levels, and the direction of the relationship could run either way. A healthy, balanced diet is an important component of blood sugar control, and dietary education for older adults should be strengthened.]]>
