Diabetes Nutritionists and Dietitians in 97068

Photo of Iris Briand, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Iris Briand
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Serves Area
Custom nutrition coaching can help with: Encouraging Weight Balance, Managing Diabetes, Improving Digestion, Equalizing Cholesterol, and Lowering Blood Pressure.
Sol Food Nutrition, LLC is your home for nutritional support. The company is owned by Iris Briand, RDN, LD. Ms. Briand provides Custom Nutrition Coaching and Presentations that help lead people to adopt a healthier lifestyle by preparing simple, healthy & delicious meals.
Custom nutrition coaching can help with: Encouraging Weight Balance, Managing Diabetes, Improving Digestion, Equalizing Cholesterol, and Lowering Blood Pressure.
Sol Food Nutrition, LLC is your home for nutritional support. The company is owned by Iris Briand, RDN, LD. Ms. Briand provides Custom Nutrition Coaching and Presentations that help lead people to adopt a healthier lifestyle by preparing simple, healthy & delicious meals.
(541) 625-1529 View (541) 625-1529

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Kristen Nyampong, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Kristen Nyampong
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Serves Area
I also work with individuals with diabetes and prediabetes, focusing on improving A1C through a non-restrictive approach.
My name is Kristen Nyampong, and I’m a Registered Dietitian based in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. I take a person-centered, trauma-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. I’m especially passionate about working with individuals in the BIPOC community and those who are vegan, vegetarian, or plant-forward.
I also work with individuals with diabetes and prediabetes, focusing on improving A1C through a non-restrictive approach.
My name is Kristen Nyampong, and I’m a Registered Dietitian based in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. I take a person-centered, trauma-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. I’m especially passionate about working with individuals in the BIPOC community and those who are vegan, vegetarian, or plant-forward.
(331) 259-8859 View (331) 259-8859
Photo of Ariela Nielson - Nielson Nutrition & Diabetes Care, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES, LD, CD
Nielson Nutrition & Diabetes Care, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES, LD, CD
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203
Managing diabetes is a full time job, but what if there was a way to simplify it?
Specializing in diabetes and celiac, I see people struggling to manage blood sugar or wanting to improve health outcomes by better understanding their bodies and how to get the best results with the least effort. As we talk through recommendations, we often experiment to learn more about your unique body's reaction to insulin, carbs, stress and activity.
Managing diabetes is a full time job, but what if there was a way to simplify it?
Specializing in diabetes and celiac, I see people struggling to manage blood sugar or wanting to improve health outcomes by better understanding their bodies and how to get the best results with the least effort. As we talk through recommendations, we often experiment to learn more about your unique body's reaction to insulin, carbs, stress and activity.
(971) 298-7784 View (971) 298-7784
Photo of Stone Jamison, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Stone Jamison
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Stone is a committed registered dietitian with expertise in outpatient nutritional care who enjoys working with clients for weight loss, heart health and gastrointestinal disorders. Grounded in evidence-based practices, Stone meets you where you are, crafting personalized interventions to align with your unique goals. Dedicated to inclusivity, Stone fosters a welcoming, judgment-free space that honors all body types, cultures, and aspirations. Passionate about empowering others, Stone will guide and support you on your wellness journey, making sure you feel understood and encouraged at every step.
Stone is a committed registered dietitian with expertise in outpatient nutritional care who enjoys working with clients for weight loss, heart health and gastrointestinal disorders. Grounded in evidence-based practices, Stone meets you where you are, crafting personalized interventions to align with your unique goals. Dedicated to inclusivity, Stone fosters a welcoming, judgment-free space that honors all body types, cultures, and aspirations. Passionate about empowering others, Stone will guide and support you on your wellness journey, making sure you feel understood and encouraged at every step.
(508) 501-3837 View (508) 501-3837
Photo of Mia O'Brien-Combs, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Mia O'Brien-Combs
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I've worked at various levels of care supporting clients with eating disorders, disordered eating, diabetes, pregnancy, and chronic disease prevention and management.
Hi! I'm Mia (she/her). I’m a Registered Dietitian dedicated to providing culturally centered, accessible, and compassionate nutrition care. I am committed to providing HAES-aligned evidence based care that also honors and celebrates your lived experience. I utilize intuitive eating principles and motivational interviewing with an “all foods fit” and gentle nutrition approach.I will work with you from a place of curiosity and together we will develop tools, skills, and knowledge to better understand and nourish your body while working towards your health goals.
I've worked at various levels of care supporting clients with eating disorders, disordered eating, diabetes, pregnancy, and chronic disease prevention and management.
Hi! I'm Mia (she/her). I’m a Registered Dietitian dedicated to providing culturally centered, accessible, and compassionate nutrition care. I am committed to providing HAES-aligned evidence based care that also honors and celebrates your lived experience. I utilize intuitive eating principles and motivational interviewing with an “all foods fit” and gentle nutrition approach.I will work with you from a place of curiosity and together we will develop tools, skills, and knowledge to better understand and nourish your body while working towards your health goals.
(904) 601-1243 View (904) 601-1243
Photo of Brittany Norem, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Brittany Norem
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97224
Specialities include: Weight management, Pre- Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, PCOS, Heart Healthy Eating, General Nutrition, High Cholesterol, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Celiac Disease, IBS, Vegetarian and Vegan diets.
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
Specialities include: Weight management, Pre- Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, PCOS, Heart Healthy Eating, General Nutrition, High Cholesterol, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Celiac Disease, IBS, Vegetarian and Vegan diets.
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
(904) 467-7389 View (904) 467-7389
Photo of Barbara Heerkens, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LD
Barbara Heerkens
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LD
5 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Ideal clients are individuals who spend a significant amount of time worrying about their body, weight, and food choices, often feeling trapped in a cycle of restriction, guilt, and frustration. They may believe they'll never achieve their health goals. These clients are ready to explore the diet cycle, challenge misinformation, and develop mindfulness around their thoughts on food, weight, and health. This process helps quiet the constant “food noise” in their minds and fosters greater self-compassion, freedom, and peace with food.
Ideal clients are individuals who spend a significant amount of time worrying about their body, weight, and food choices, often feeling trapped in a cycle of restriction, guilt, and frustration. They may believe they'll never achieve their health goals. These clients are ready to explore the diet cycle, challenge misinformation, and develop mindfulness around their thoughts on food, weight, and health. This process helps quiet the constant “food noise” in their minds and fosters greater self-compassion, freedom, and peace with food.
(785) 377-5964 View (785) 377-5964
Photo of Kassy Dobson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDCES
Kassy Dobson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDCES
Portland, OR 97232
I specialize in women's health, fertility, endometriosis, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, sports nutrition, Hashimotos, SIBO, MCAS, and food allergies and intolerances.
I love working with people who are ready to feel better and are open to exploring new approaches to healing. My nutrition counseling style is patient-centered, with a focus on creating recommendations that truly resonate with you. I draw on the principles of intuitive eating and health autonomy so that our work together feels approachable, personalized, and sustainable. I often use functional nutrition testing for a deeper dive into your health story.
I specialize in women's health, fertility, endometriosis, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, sports nutrition, Hashimotos, SIBO, MCAS, and food allergies and intolerances.
I love working with people who are ready to feel better and are open to exploring new approaches to healing. My nutrition counseling style is patient-centered, with a focus on creating recommendations that truly resonate with you. I draw on the principles of intuitive eating and health autonomy so that our work together feels approachable, personalized, and sustainable. I often use functional nutrition testing for a deeper dive into your health story.
(971) 451-2281 View (971) 451-2281
Photo of Caitlin Sloane - Nutrition Studio, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, CIEC
Nutrition Studio
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, CIEC
Portland, OR 97232
Our specialties include disordered eating, intuitive eating, digestive health (IBD, SIBO, IBS), type 1 and type 2 diabetes, women's health, PCOS, autoimmune conditions, complex health issues, and more!
We specialize in personalized nutrition counseling, and immersive nutrition education. We use an evidence based approach and offer a judgement free space to explore your intrinsic relationship to food and body. We work from a foundation of Weight Neutrality and Functional and Integrative Nutrition to treat the whole person and identify root causes.
Our specialties include disordered eating, intuitive eating, digestive health (IBD, SIBO, IBS), type 1 and type 2 diabetes, women's health, PCOS, autoimmune conditions, complex health issues, and more!
We specialize in personalized nutrition counseling, and immersive nutrition education. We use an evidence based approach and offer a judgement free space to explore your intrinsic relationship to food and body. We work from a foundation of Weight Neutrality and Functional and Integrative Nutrition to treat the whole person and identify root causes.
(503) 213-4510 View (503) 213-4510
Photo of Carra Joseph, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LRD, LD
Carra Joseph
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LRD, LD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Carra is a Registered Dietitian (RD) who recognizes that nutrition is both universal and deeply personal. Nutrition isn’t just about eating—culture, goals, preferences, and habits all shape how we fuel ourselves. Carra provides a nonjudgmental space where individuals can connect nutrition and wellness and feel empowered to make sustainable changes.
Carra is a Registered Dietitian (RD) who recognizes that nutrition is both universal and deeply personal. Nutrition isn’t just about eating—culture, goals, preferences, and habits all shape how we fuel ourselves. Carra provides a nonjudgmental space where individuals can connect nutrition and wellness and feel empowered to make sustainable changes.
(980) 575-0909 View (980) 575-0909
Photo of Melinda Staehling, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LD, CN
Melinda Staehling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LD, CN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in digestive health (IBS, bloating, celiac disease, histamine intolerance, GERD), diabetes, PCOS, mast cell activation, and nutrition to support mental health.
Having a difficult relationship with food and a chronic health condition is challenging. I respect bodies of all shapes and sizes and will work with you on your individual path to a new relationship with food and your body. My sessions might include brainstorming goals to make progress, meal planning, and supporting any nutrient deficiencies.
I specialize in digestive health (IBS, bloating, celiac disease, histamine intolerance, GERD), diabetes, PCOS, mast cell activation, and nutrition to support mental health.
Having a difficult relationship with food and a chronic health condition is challenging. I respect bodies of all shapes and sizes and will work with you on your individual path to a new relationship with food and your body. My sessions might include brainstorming goals to make progress, meal planning, and supporting any nutrient deficiencies.
(541) 569-4778 View (541) 569-4778
Photo of Chelsea Saltzman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Chelsea Saltzman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
Chelsea specializes in women’s health, weight management, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, GLP-1 medications, general nutrition, meal planning, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, sports performance/nutrition, mindful/intuitive eating, disordered eating, and binge-eating disorder.
My ideal client can be of any age or background. They may be seeking weight loss, better performance, improved labs, muscle gain, or a healthier relationship with food. What matters most is that they’re open to problem-solving—willing to examine habits with curiosity, apply evidence practically, and use accountability to measure progress. They understand that change requires consistency, reflection, and course correction; if they’re not fully ready, they’re willing to explore what’s in the way.
Chelsea specializes in women’s health, weight management, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, GLP-1 medications, general nutrition, meal planning, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, sports performance/nutrition, mindful/intuitive eating, disordered eating, and binge-eating disorder.
My ideal client can be of any age or background. They may be seeking weight loss, better performance, improved labs, muscle gain, or a healthier relationship with food. What matters most is that they’re open to problem-solving—willing to examine habits with curiosity, apply evidence practically, and use accountability to measure progress. They understand that change requires consistency, reflection, and course correction; if they’re not fully ready, they’re willing to explore what’s in the way.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Elise Vega, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PSM, RDN, LDN
Elise Vega
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PSM, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialities include: Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, Intuitive Eating, High Cholesterol, Heart Health, High Blood Pressure, Weight Gain, Anti-Inflammatory, Pre- Diabetes, and Type 2 Diabetes.
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
Specialities include: Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, Intuitive Eating, High Cholesterol, Heart Health, High Blood Pressure, Weight Gain, Anti-Inflammatory, Pre- Diabetes, and Type 2 Diabetes.
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
(321) 468-9298 View (321) 468-9298
Photo of Cindy Wu, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Cindy Wu
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97236
Cindy is a Registered Dietitian with a background in individualized client care and 1:1 nutrition counseling. Cindy has developed rapport with clients from a variety of diagnoses, with a specialization in eating disorders. Cindy's primary goal is to help clients foster a strong and sustainable relationship with food that ultimately meets long-term goals. Cindy is a Registered Dietitian who provides an empathetic, trauma-informed, Health-At-Every-Size-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. Ensuring that clients feel supported and ready to make changes towards their nutritional goals is her main priority.
Cindy is a Registered Dietitian with a background in individualized client care and 1:1 nutrition counseling. Cindy has developed rapport with clients from a variety of diagnoses, with a specialization in eating disorders. Cindy's primary goal is to help clients foster a strong and sustainable relationship with food that ultimately meets long-term goals. Cindy is a Registered Dietitian who provides an empathetic, trauma-informed, Health-At-Every-Size-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. Ensuring that clients feel supported and ready to make changes towards their nutritional goals is her main priority.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Casey Bramble, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Casey Bramble
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97230
Casey specializes in weight management, anti-inflammatory nutrition, diabetes care, prenatal and postpartum nutrition, heart and kidney health, and malnutrition.
Casey is a compassionate Registered Dietitian (RD) dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health and well-being. Her ideal client is someone who is curious about improving their relationship with food and their body through sustainable nutrition practices.
Casey specializes in weight management, anti-inflammatory nutrition, diabetes care, prenatal and postpartum nutrition, heart and kidney health, and malnutrition.
Casey is a compassionate Registered Dietitian (RD) dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health and well-being. Her ideal client is someone who is curious about improving their relationship with food and their body through sustainable nutrition practices.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Ashlee Hancock, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Ashlee Hancock
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties: Eating disorders and disordered eating, intuitive eating, weight management, general nutrition, women’s health and wellness, Type II diabetes, and fostering a positive relationship with food and self in a safe, supportive environment.
Ashlee is a registered dietitian with a passion for helping clients build healthier lives through nutrition. She chose dietetics to support individuals in creating sustainable habits while feeling guided and supported throughout their journey. With both personal and professional experience in eating disorder recovery, this population is especially close to her heart. Ashlee is dedicated to helping clients develop a positive relationship with food and their bodies using compassion, evidence-based care, and lived experience.
Specialties: Eating disorders and disordered eating, intuitive eating, weight management, general nutrition, women’s health and wellness, Type II diabetes, and fostering a positive relationship with food and self in a safe, supportive environment.
Ashlee is a registered dietitian with a passion for helping clients build healthier lives through nutrition. She chose dietetics to support individuals in creating sustainable habits while feeling guided and supported throughout their journey. With both personal and professional experience in eating disorder recovery, this population is especially close to her heart. Ashlee is dedicated to helping clients develop a positive relationship with food and their bodies using compassion, evidence-based care, and lived experience.
(515) 375-7850 View (515) 375-7850
Photo of Allison Hoybach, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Allison Hoybach
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Her primary focus has been bariatric support, diabetes, IBS, and plant based nutrition, but her background also includes kidney disease, heart health, gut issues and malnutrition.
Specialities include: Bariatric Support, Weight Management and Weight Loss Medications, Diabetes, Kidney Disease, Plant-Based Eating, Heart Health and Mindful Eating.
Her primary focus has been bariatric support, diabetes, IBS, and plant based nutrition, but her background also includes kidney disease, heart health, gut issues and malnutrition.
Specialities include: Bariatric Support, Weight Management and Weight Loss Medications, Diabetes, Kidney Disease, Plant-Based Eating, Heart Health and Mindful Eating.
(352) 309-0794 View (352) 309-0794
Photo of Leo Fischer - Nutrition In The Right Place, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MscN, CN
Nutrition In The Right Place
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MscN, CN
Portland, OR 97202
I work with a lot of clients that have weight loss goals and to prevent, reverse or manage chronic disease including heart disease and diabetes.
Complete list on my website NutritionInTheRightPlace.com. I only use evidence based and well researched recommendations in my nutrition practice. My specialties include type 2 diabetes, cholesterol, high blood pressure, weight loss, heart disease, Keto, Vegetarian/Vegan, medical nutrition therapy, SIBO, Sports Nutrition, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and more!
I work with a lot of clients that have weight loss goals and to prevent, reverse or manage chronic disease including heart disease and diabetes.
Complete list on my website NutritionInTheRightPlace.com. I only use evidence based and well researched recommendations in my nutrition practice. My specialties include type 2 diabetes, cholesterol, high blood pressure, weight loss, heart disease, Keto, Vegetarian/Vegan, medical nutrition therapy, SIBO, Sports Nutrition, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and more!
(508) 544-0663 View (508) 544-0663
Photo of Katie Whitson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Katie Whitson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specializes in Disordered Eating and Eating disorders, HAES, Intuitive Eating, Sports Nutrition, General Health/Wellness, Cardiovascular Health, Hormone challenges/imbalances, and Diabetes care.
Katie Whitson is a dedicated HAEs-aligned Registered Dietitian with a deep passion for fostering healthy, sustainable relationships with food and movement. She embraces a non-diet approach, focusing on the connection between nutrition and mental health. Katie employs evidence-based strategies to meet patients where they are in their care, empowering them through active involvement and personalized support. Her mission is to inspire lifelong, transformative changes by blending consistency, structure and creativity in every aspect of her practice.
Specializes in Disordered Eating and Eating disorders, HAES, Intuitive Eating, Sports Nutrition, General Health/Wellness, Cardiovascular Health, Hormone challenges/imbalances, and Diabetes care.
Katie Whitson is a dedicated HAEs-aligned Registered Dietitian with a deep passion for fostering healthy, sustainable relationships with food and movement. She embraces a non-diet approach, focusing on the connection between nutrition and mental health. Katie employs evidence-based strategies to meet patients where they are in their care, empowering them through active involvement and personalized support. Her mission is to inspire lifelong, transformative changes by blending consistency, structure and creativity in every aspect of her practice.
(551) 288-6517 View (551) 288-6517
Photo of Jody Halouska, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Jody Halouska
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Portland, OR 97215
Specialties include Diabetes and Pre- diabetes, Bariatrics (pre and post operation), Weight management, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Gastrointestinal, GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Kidney disease, liver disease, and Sports Nutrition.
Jody is a passionate advocate for health, wellness, and feeling your best. Jody is committed to empowering individuals to make positive and sustainable lifestyle changes. Jody strives to provide personalized guidance to help clients achieve their health goals and create a harmonious relationship with food. Recognizing that each individual's relationship with food is unique, Jody works to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their dietary preferences, navigate challenges and cultivate sustainable habits that align with their goals and values.
Specialties include Diabetes and Pre- diabetes, Bariatrics (pre and post operation), Weight management, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Gastrointestinal, GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Kidney disease, liver disease, and Sports Nutrition.
Jody is a passionate advocate for health, wellness, and feeling your best. Jody is committed to empowering individuals to make positive and sustainable lifestyle changes. Jody strives to provide personalized guidance to help clients achieve their health goals and create a harmonious relationship with food. Recognizing that each individual's relationship with food is unique, Jody works to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their dietary preferences, navigate challenges and cultivate sustainable habits that align with their goals and values.
(872) 259-7074 View (872) 259-7074
Diabetes Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition characterized by excessively high blood sugar levels due to insufficient insulin. Insulin is a hormone essential for reducing blood sugar by enabling cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin due to an inflammatory process affecting insulin-producing cells. In contrast, type 2 diabetes is an acquired condition resulting from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, such as obesity and physical inactivity. In type 2 diabetes, the body has an impaired response to insulin, known as "insulin resistance." Even if the pancreas produces a normal amount of insulin, the body stops responding effectively to the hormone, resulting in impaired glucose uptake into cells.

Is type 2 diabetes caused by a bad diet?
Type 2 diabetes is a complex disease influenced by both genetic and lifestyle factors. Research has shown that poor diet is a major contributor, particularly the consumption of sugar-rich foods and refined carbohydrates, which can lead to insulin resistance. An unhealthy diet promoting obesity is another risk factor, as excess weight increases the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Additional lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption also contribute to the disease's onset. These elements collectively underscore the importance of healthy diet choices in preventing type 2 diabetes.

How does nutrition affect diabetes?
Nutrition plays a vital role in managing both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Keeping track of carbohydrate intake is essential for proper insulin dosing and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. To manage blood sugar effectively, many people with diabetes avoid foods that cause spikes in blood sugar, like sugary snacks and refined carbs such as white bread. Instead, they focus on foods that help stabilize blood sugar, like healthy fats and high-fiber options. Portion control and eating meals at regular times are also important for keeping blood sugar levels steady.

How can a dietitian help someone with diabetes?
Dietitians play a crucial role in assisting individuals with diabetes through lifestyle modification strategies and symptom management. Their expertise is particularly valuable for those recently diagnosed or at risk of developing diabetes. Dietitians provide guidance on tracking carbohydrate intake and appropriately dosing insulin, which is essential for effective diabetes management. For individuals with type 2 diabetes, dietitians can help design weight loss plans and recommend specific dietary modifications, such as increasing the intake of plant-based foods, to promote a healthier lifestyle. In addition, dietitians will often work with other medical professionals on a patient's care team to help the patient navigate symptoms and can thus help the patient integrate input from various professional sources in the management of their condition.