Managing Diabetes Through Diet and Weight Control

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Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic health condition in which the level of glucose in the blood is higher than usual. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not create enough insulin and type 2 diabetes occurs when insulin is produced, but is not adequate in lowering blood glucose levels or there is resistance to the insulin (Edwards, 2007, p. 9). Diabetes mellitus is the leading cause of end-stage kidney disease, foot and leg amputations, and new cases of blindness in the United States (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2010, p. 1465-66). People with type 1 diabetes are required to take insulin to manage their glucose levels. People with type 2 diabetes are usually prescribed oral medications such as sulfonylurea agents, meglitinide analogues, or biguanides to help control their glucose levels. Twenty to 30% of people with type 2 diabetes require insulin therapy as well (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2010, p. 1471). In addition to medication therapy, diet and weight control can help manage both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Because diabetes mellitus can cause such severe complications, it is important that people with diabetes understand the importance of certain health and lifestyle choices, such as their diet and weight to manage their disease. Patients with diabetes mellitus should pay special attention to the amount of carbohydrates, protein, fat, and minerals that are included in their diet. Monitoring these components of their diet, along with weight management, can help control their diabetes mellitus.

Diabetic Diet

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates that are consumed by a diabetic will have the most effect on his or her blood glucose levels (Watts & Anselmo, 2006, p. 46). Because of this, carbohydrates play an important role in th...

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