• Item type: Guideline/policy recommendation
• Country: United Kingdom
• Language: English
• Author: Dr Trudi Deakin, Alastair Duncan, Dr Pamela Dyson, Professor Gary Frost, Zoe Harrison, Tracy Kelly, Deepa Khatri, Denise Kunka, Paul McArdle, Duane Mellor, Lindsay Oliver and Joy Worth
• Publication Date: May, 2011
• Diabetes(1.82 MB)

Nutrition management is fundamental for the prevention of Type 2 diabetes and the effective management of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The purpose of these guidelines is to provide information to healthcare professionals and people living with diabetes about nutritional interventions that will assist them in making appropriate food choices to reduce risk and improve glycaemic control and quality of life, in relation to their diabetes. Advice needs to be based on scientific evidence and then tailored specifically for the individual, taking into account their personal and cultural preferences, beliefs, lifestyle and the change that the individual is willing and able to make. An individual’s circumstances may change over time and all advice should be tailored accordingly. Achieving nutrition related goals requires a co-ordinated team approach, with the person with diabetes at the centre of the decision making process. A registered dietitian with specialist knowledge should take the lead role in providing nutritional care. However, it is important that all members of the multi-disciplinary team are knowledgeable about diabetes-related nutrition management and support its implementation.

The beneficial effects of physical activity in the prevention and management of diabetes and the relationship between physical activity, energy balance and body weight are an integral part of lifestyle counseling and have been discussed in this document.