New interventions in diabetes with medical nutrition therapy

Nutrition therapy has been the focus of diabetes management since before insulin was discovered.(1) Many theories and approaches have been recommended and reemerged over the years. Since the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) results were released in 1993, nutrition is considered the most critical and pivotal component of diabetes care in achieving blood glucose goals. We have seen increased emphases on individualized nutrition therapy and the dietitian as a true partner in diabetes care, research, and management.(1) Advances in nutrition therapy now center on methods to improve behavioral change because it is the major challenge facing people with diabetes. Access to nutrition therapy and self-management training is critical to improve clinical outcomes and reduce health care costs otherwise spent on clinic visits, expensive medications, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations.(1)