| Abstract: |
Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) and physical activity have been considered the cornerstones of metabolic control in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes for decades. More recently, these lifestyle components have proven valuable in preventing type 2 diabetes. This chapter on nutrition and physical activity in diabetes mellitus is from a textbook that provides readers with current information on the diagnosis and treatment of patients with diabetes, including the latest advances, medications, and research studies. The author notes that the challenge for health professionals in implementing MNT and exercise guidelines is recognizing that the person with diabetes is responsible for 99 percent of the day-to-day management of diabetes, and ultimately makes the choice of what, when, and how much to eat and exercise. Helping patients prioritize strategies and develop critical thinking to problem solve around day-to-day hassles of diabetes is crucial to achieving metabolic control. Topics include healthy eating, glycemic control, body weight, minimizing weight gain, calorie restriction and weight, nutrient composition and weight, exercise and weight, carbohydrates, quantity of carbohydrate, type of carbohydrate and glycemic index, carbohydrate counting, physical activity and glycemic control, protein and renal (kidney) function, fat and cardiovascular risk, and alcohol. 1 figure. 3 tables. 106 references. |