Building Competency in Diabetes Education THE ESSENTIALS

TREATMENT MODALITIES: LIFESTYLE| 5-33

o Following diagnosis, but before consultation with a dietitian, thereby providing the patient with some information to take action. o Following consultation with a dietitian, if it is determined that the patient does not require additional information to maintain adequate glycemic control. o As a health-promotion tool for those at risk of developing diabetes. Diabetes Canada has adapted this tool for cultural groups that are at higher risk for diabetes to help them in diabetes prevention and self-management while still enjoying their favourite cultural foods (139). • Beyond the Basics: Meal Planning for Healthy Eating, Diabetes Prevention & Management o Meal planning poster : Diabetes Canada has developed this flexible meal planning tool to assist health professionals in educating patients about managing their food intake to optimize metabolic parameters. For the carbohydrate foods, each serving size represents approximately 15 g of available carbohydrate. Appropriate levels of energy intake must be determined for each patient, and then the meal plan chart needs to be filled out by a dietitian in consultation with the patient. This level of information is appropriate for those who want a meal plan to help with food choices, BG control and/or weight management. o Meal Planning Resource (140): This resource contains information on a wide variety of topics that can help people plan meals and manage their diabetes. It includes an expanded list of foods, which can assist people with managing their diabetes while they enjoy a variety of foods. o Healthy Lifestyle Resource (141): The goal of this manual is to promote good health and to assist with management of diabetes. It provides information that can help anyone improve his or her lifestyle.