diabetes

Introduction

Diabetes is a metabolic disease defined by high blood glucose concentration, also known as hyperglycemia (Mertig, 2012). Hyperglycemia is the result of having a problem with insulin release and/or a problem with insulin action. In other words, a person living with diabetes produces little to no insulin (type 1 diabetes) or does not have the ability to utilize efficiently the insulin produced (type 2 diabetes) (Mertig, 2012). Diabetes is a growing epidemic in the United States. In an effort to better manage and reduce the incidence of diabetes, researchers dedicate an enormous amount of time each year trying to gain a stronger understanding of the disease (Philis-Tsimikas and Decker, 2011). After all, the long term complications of uncontrolled diabetes (i.e. blindness, renal failure, heart disease, amputations, etc) can be devastating and needs to be prevented and/or controlled (Mertig, 2012). Individuals living with diabetes need to incorporate nutritional management, physical activity, compliance with medications, proper monitoring of blood sugars, self education and most importantly actively participate in their own diabetes care. According to Inzucchi et al, a patient centered approach is best and means, “Providing care that is respectful of and responsive to individual patient preferences, needs, and values and ensuring that patient values guide all clinical decisions.” An approach proven to be effective in managing diabetes is the diabetes self-management education (DSME) approach. DSME is a “patient centered” approach that actively involves the client in all aspects of their diabetes care and provides the necessary tools to encourage self-directed growth. A huge part of the DSME approach is the client’s diet,...

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... properly in relation to meals and in combination of other therapies will maintain tight glucose control. Great competency is shown by the client’s ability to verbally and visually demonstrate these skills and maintain the behavioral change six months or more with good quality of life. With that said, diabetes is a lifelong disease and requires lifelong management. Even the most compliant and competent client should be encouraged to follow-up on a regular basis to guarantee the best outcomes from living with diabetes.

Conclusion

Diabetes is a complex disease and can be very overwhelming to the person living with the condition. Diet plays a major part in helping the client managing their diabetes. Motivating, encouraging and empowering the client to be actively involved in their own diabetes care has proven to be successful in every aspect of diabetes management.