Building Competency in Diabetes Education THE ESSENTIALS

TREATMENT MODALITIES: LIFESTYLE| 5-3

TREATMENT MODALITIES: LIFESTYLE

Healthy meal planning and physical activity are vital components of diabetes management. Nutrition therapy is important for preventing diabetes, managing existing diabetes and preventing – or at least slowing – the rate of development of diabetes complications. Physical activity often improves glucose control and facilitates weight loss, but even if there is no change to glucose control or weight, there are many other health benefits of activity. Regular exercise can help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes from developing. Although the importance of healthy eating and physical activity is well established, it is challenging to make changes to one’s lifestyle. Meal planning is often cited as the most difficult part of diabetes management. Lifestyle plans must be developed together with the patient so that metabolic goals, as well as the individual’s lifestyle and personal goals, can be achieved.