Why Seeing a Dietician is Wise for the Diabetic Patient

Diabetes is the condition in which the body does not properly make or use insulin. As a result, there is too much glucose (sugar) in the blood. The objective for every person with diabetes is to manage their blood sugar well. Doing so decreases the damage that this condition causes to the gums and teeth, gastrointestinal tract, nerves, kidneys, eyes, and vascular system, including the heart. One way that diabetic patients can gain control over their long-term health is to work with a registered dietician nutritionist. 

What Is Medical Nutrition Therapy?

Medical Nutrition Therapy is an integral aspect of the care we offer here at Summit Healthcare. It is a service performed by our experienced registered dietician nutritionists that begins with a comprehensive consultation and nutrition diagnosis. It also involves nutritional therapies and counseling for patients to help them adopt a healthier lifestyle based on their biological needs. For example, a patient may learn how to count their carbohydrates, known to create glucose spikes. Patients can also learn how to use exchange lists and behavioral strategies that lead them toward improved health. According to studies, Medical Nutrition Therapy can decrease patients’ HbA1c, weight, and cholesterol in as little as 3 months. In so doing, nutritional changes can reduce both the risks of chronic disease and the need for medication to manage blood sugar. 

What is a Registered Dietician Nutritionist?

With so much information available online, why would a patient work with a registered dietician nutritionist? This medical specialist is an expert in food and nutrition. They have gained a great deal of knowledge about food and how it affects the body through multiple levels of training developed by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics. A registered dietician nutritionist designs the best therapy for each patient based on short- and long-term goals. Their treatment program may begin with daily meal plans developed around individual food preferences, level of activity, and other factors. 

Working with a registered dietician nutritionist and receiving Medical Nutrition Therapy is an excellent idea for many diabetic patients. It helps them achieve health goals without having to go it alone. The RDN can provide detailed strategies as well as ongoing support throughout the course of care. 

Learn more about our Medical Nutrition Therapy services. Contact our Show Low, AZ facility today.