Diabetes Focus Area
Next Steps

Health experts still do not understand diabetes completely and maybe someday diabetes will be preventable. Lifestyle changes can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes in those who are at high risk of getting the disease. Modest weight loss (5-10 percent of body weight) and modest physical activity (30 minutes daily) are the recommended goals.

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The most important aspect of nutrition in most people with diabetes is to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. Even the process of weight loss can result in marked improvement in blood glucose control.

There is no one formula for the proportions of carbohydrates, fats and proteins that is known to work for all diabetics. If you have diabetes, a healthy meal plan combined with exercise is crucial. These principles are especially important because of their markedly increased risk of cardiovascular disease. For a healthy meal plan, practice the following:

1. Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are sugars, breads, cereals, rice, pasta, potatoes, fruits and vegetables. The total amount of carbohydrates in the diet is more important than the kind of carbohydrate. Experts note that there is little evidence to support avoiding sugars in favor of more complex carbohydrates. It is important to get a lot of fiber in your food choices and get about 55 percent to 60 percent of your calories from carbohydrates. However, the amount of carbohydrates per meal and snacks should be discussed with your health care team.
    
2. Protein: You do not need to increase or decrease the amount of protein in your diet. About 10 percent to 25 percent of your calories should come from lean protein sources. If there are signs of protein in your urine – an early sign of kidney damage – decreasing the animal protein to about 10 percent to 15 percent of your daily calories is recommended.
    
3. Fats: Like everyone, you should get no more than about 35 percent of your calories from fats. An effort should be made to avoid saturated and trans fats, like red meats, butter, creams and processed foods. Be careful, because fats do have a lot of calories and can contribute to weight gain.
    
4. Exercise: Exercise is important for everyone, but extremely important if you have diabetes since physical activity helps regulate insulin resistance.

WorldDoc Diabetes Risk Assessment

Complete the Diabetes Risk Assessment to evaluate how well you are managing your diabetes. The WorldDoc Diabetes Report Card will give you specific health goals and recommendations.