There is strong evidence that nutrition counseling is an effective treatment tool for type 2 diabetes in combination with medical care. The goal of nutrition therapy is to support healthy eating habits that minimize the complications of diabetes. This is achieved by targeting individual blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol goals through personalized nutrition interventions. 

Some factors increase the effectiveness of nutrition counseling in type 2 diabetes, such as: 

• At least three visits within the first six months of establishing care with a dietitian.
• Routine follow-up visits throughout the rest of the first year, followed by at least one annual follow-up. 
• Evidence-based nutrition interventions. 
• Goals are tailored to the individual’s preferences and medical history. 

Benefits of Nutrition Counseling for Type 2 Diabetes

Research shows that people with type 2 diabetes who participated in nutrition therapy with a registered dietitian experienced up to a two percent decrease in A1c levels after three months. Hemoglobin A1c is a three-month average of blood sugar levels. Though A1c goals may vary from person to person, the standard goal is under seven percent.

Working with a dietitian has been shown to result in lower dosages needed for oral glucose-lowering medications. Some people are able to discontinue one or more medications altogether. Nutrition therapy can also help prevent weight gain in people starting insulin therapy.

Individuals who undergo nutrition therapy after being newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes have the greatest improvement in A1c and medication needs. However, there is strong evidence that nutrition counseling is beneficial at any stage of type 2 diabetes. 

Studies show that people who participated in nutrition counseling for type 2 diabetes reported increased motivation, knowledge, and quality of life. They also had lower stress levels and felt healthier. 

People with type 2 diabetes have a greater risk of cardiovascular disease. There is evidence that individualized nutrition therapy can improve risk factors like high blood pressure and certain cholesterol markers in people with type 2 diabetes. 

During the education portion of the appointment, the dietitian will talk to you about your understanding of diabetes and the recommended dietary and lifestyle changes. There are many topics your visits may cover, including: 

• Macronutrient ratios (carbs, fat, and protein) and calorie intake.
• Dietary strategies for optimizing blood sugar levels (such as carb counting or the plate method).
• Insulin to carb ratios.
• Fiber and whole grains.
• Added sugars.
• Alcohol intake. 
• Physical activity.
• Heart-healthy dietary and lifestyle habits.

Lastly, your dietitian will work with you to develop a personalized plan that feels both realistic and sustainable in the long term. The dietary guidelines for type 2 diabetes are to eat a moderate carbohydrate diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, legumes, fruits, and vegetables with a limited saturated fat intake.

One tool that can help you incorporate these recommendations into your meal plan is the diabetes plate method, which involves dividing your plate into three sections– with one quarter of your plate including high fiber, whole grain carbohydrates, one quarter being lean proteins, and the remaining half consisting of nonstarchy vegetables. 

If you have other health concerns, like kidney disease or high blood pressure, your dietitian will consider these conditions while creating your plan. The nutrition recommendations will also be individualized to your: 

• Food preferences.
• Lifestyle.
• Culture/religion.
• Economic status.
• Medical history.