Diabetes and nutrition recommendations: a practical perspective

Nutritional management is a major therapeutic tool in the care of persons with diabetes. Goals for insulin-dependent and noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM and NIDDM) differ due to the underlying pathophysiology of the conditions. This article discusses the nutrition management goals for IDDM and NIDDM and provides practical recommendations to achieve them. The authors supply a sample meal plan, a list of high-fiber and low-fat foods, a sample diet history, and a food record to facilitate assessment and patient behavior changes. NPs can use this information in practice when nutrition consultation is not available.