Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed or have had diabetes for years, medical nutrition therapy is one of the most effective ways to improve and control your diabetes. With either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, maintaining your blood sugar levels is key to overall, long-term health. In addition, the foods you eat also impact the health of vital organs that are at increased risk of complications when you have diabetes.
A qualified nutritional expert, such as a Registered Dietitian, is a valuable member of your diabetes management team, along with your doctors and other health care providers. These professionals will extensively review all influencing factors in your illness, including family history, lifestyle, fitness levels and more, to come up with a complete, personalized diet and nutrition plan.
Why you need the help of a professional
While counting calories and other methods for planning your diet are important, a professional can help you fine tune your diet and learn valuable lessons in managing blood sugar. Every individual is different, and different types of foods can have unexpected results. Certain foods may have a higher or lower glycemic index, which is the rate at which sugar gets released into the blood stream. Differences among foods can be subtle, and cooking method or processing may influence the results. For example, a mashed potato has a higher glycemic index than a baked potato.
Consider consulting a Registered Dietitian if you:
- Are newly diagnosed– There is no set plan for everyone, especially if you have diabetes. Learning how to monitor blood sugar and make smart adjustments is critical, and a professional can help. Studies have shown that working with professionals upon diagnosis can have a significant impact in long-term health by helping you understand how important diet and overall fitness is.
- Require a special diet due to risk of complications– Diabetes can impact a number of organs and systems that can cause a chain reaction in your body. For example, if you suffer from chronic renal illness, you’ll want to limit your intake of phosphorous and potassium.
- Can’t maintain steady blood glucose levels– Frequent spikes and dips in blood sugar levels can put you at risk for hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, and can lead to other complications as well. With the help of a qualified professional, you can learn more about how and why your body is reacting to your nutritional intake and pinpoint specific adjustments.
- Are having trouble meeting weight loss goals– With diabetes, losing weight can be tricky, but it is also one of the best things you can do to improve your overall health. It can be especially challenging to reach weight loss goals while properly maintaining your blood sugar levels.
- Restricted by allergies or other diet limitations – If you have Type 1 diabetes, there’s a 10% chance you’re allergic to gluten due to a condition called celiac disease. Other allergies and special diet restrictions, such as being a vegetarian, may also come into play.
How to choose the right professional
Make sure the diet professional you choose has the background to help. The term “nutritionist” is not an official title, so take care to select a qualified health care professional:
Registered Dietitian (RD)– Certified by the American Dietetic Association, a Registered Dietitian generally has a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university approved by the ADA. In addition, RDs must pass a national exam and must participate in continuing education to maintain their registration.
Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE)– This is a health care professional that has received special training to be able to teach people about managing their diabetes.
Are nutritional visits covered by insurance?
In many cases, insurance companies and Medicare will cover up to three hours of consulting the first year, and up to two hours in subsequent years, when you have diabetes and the proper referrals from your primary caregiver. Talk to your dietitian directly to find out what insurance they may accept.
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