Skip to main content

Diabetes and Nutrition

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 6, 2024.

Why are nutrition plans important?

Nutrition plans help control blood sugar levels. They also help delay or prevent complications of diabetes, such as diabetic kidney disease.

How do I create a nutrition plan?

A dietitian will help you create a nutrition plan to meet your needs and your family's needs. Your dietitian may explain a plan such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan or the Mediterranean diet. The goal is for you to reach and maintain healthy weight, blood sugar, blood pressure, and lipid levels. You should meet with the dietitian at least 1 time each year. Your diabetes care provider may also recommend counseling to help you make nutrition changes. You will learn the following:


What are some tips to do until I meet with the dietitian?

What do I need to know if I choose to drink alcohol?

Why is it important to maintain a healthy weight?

A healthy weight can help you control your diabetes. Ask your healthcare provider what a healthy weight is for you. Even a weight loss of 3% to 7% of excess body weight can help you manage diabetes. Your provider can help you create a weight-loss plan, if needed. For example, your goal may be to lose at least 5% of your extra weight in the first 6 months.

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

When should I seek immediate care?

When should I call my doctor or diabetes care team provider?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.