Abstract: Objective To explore the diet management experiences of young and middle-aged patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods We conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews among 12 type 2 diabetes patients,and used Colaizzi 7-step analysis method for data analysis. Results Four themes emerged from the data,including multiple negative emotions,being difficult to make diet decisions,feeling the difficulty of insisting on the diabetes diets,and the desire to rebuild confidence and cope positively. Conclusion Young and middle-aged patients with type 2 diabetes generally have many problems in diet management. Their negative experience of diet management can't be ignored. Educators,families and society need to build support networks and provide effective support to help patients overcome difficulties and increase the positive experience of diet management.

Key words: Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2, Middle Aged, Young Adult, Diabetic Diet, Qualitative Research