Diabetes Nutritionists and Dietitians in 97214

Photo of Nicole Buchanan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Nicole Buchanan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
These clients may be managing, or hoping to prevent, chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or obesity.
Nicole has significant experience managing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, enteral and parenteral nutrition, oncology, hyperlipidemia, weight management, mindful eating, intuitive eating, malnutrition, and hyperemesis gravidarum.
These clients may be managing, or hoping to prevent, chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or obesity.
Nicole has significant experience managing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, enteral and parenteral nutrition, oncology, hyperlipidemia, weight management, mindful eating, intuitive eating, malnutrition, and hyperemesis gravidarum.
(659) 247-2042 View (659) 247-2042
Photo of Ruth Thompson Murillo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Ruth Thompson Murillo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Specialties include bariatrics, weight management, binge eating, prediabetes, diabetes, mindful eating, intuitive eating, prenatal and postnatal nutrition, health and wellness, GI issues, IBS/IBD, heart health, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, picky eating, vegan/vegetarian diets, and PCOS.
I am a registered dietitian with over 13 years of experience helping individuals make lifestyle changes to improve their health and achieve their goals. I practice with empathy and understanding in a nonjudgmental environment where you can truly be yourself and trust that you will be fully supported.
Specialties include bariatrics, weight management, binge eating, prediabetes, diabetes, mindful eating, intuitive eating, prenatal and postnatal nutrition, health and wellness, GI issues, IBS/IBD, heart health, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, picky eating, vegan/vegetarian diets, and PCOS.
I am a registered dietitian with over 13 years of experience helping individuals make lifestyle changes to improve their health and achieve their goals. I practice with empathy and understanding in a nonjudgmental environment where you can truly be yourself and trust that you will be fully supported.
(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

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Brittany Payton, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Brittany Payton
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Brittany helps clients heal chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and inflammation.
Brittany Payton, RD, LD, is a licensed dietitian with over 19 years of experience helping clients heal chronic conditions using food as medicine. After facing her own health challenges, she adopted a root-cause, whole-body approach. Brittany blends functional nutrition, clinical insight, and compassion to create personalized, practical plans. She truly listens to each client, empowering them to make lasting change—no quick fixes or restrictive diets here.
Brittany helps clients heal chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and inflammation.
Brittany Payton, RD, LD, is a licensed dietitian with over 19 years of experience helping clients heal chronic conditions using food as medicine. After facing her own health challenges, she adopted a root-cause, whole-body approach. Brittany blends functional nutrition, clinical insight, and compassion to create personalized, practical plans. She truly listens to each client, empowering them to make lasting change—no quick fixes or restrictive diets here.
(615) 909-4087 View (615) 909-4087
Photo of Dana Bean - No Guilt Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
No Guilt Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with clients with disordered eating habits as well as a variety of conditions including binge eating disorder, other eating disorders, diabetes, meal logistics with ADHD or other neurodivergence, prediaebtes, high cholesterol, hyperlipidemia, digestive issues, GERD, and more.
In my practice I use a weight neutral approach with clients. We can work on improving your overall health through nutrition and healing your relationship with food. Instead of focusing on weight loss, we can make reachable goals that are more behavior based.
I work with clients with disordered eating habits as well as a variety of conditions including binge eating disorder, other eating disorders, diabetes, meal logistics with ADHD or other neurodivergence, prediaebtes, high cholesterol, hyperlipidemia, digestive issues, GERD, and more.
In my practice I use a weight neutral approach with clients. We can work on improving your overall health through nutrition and healing your relationship with food. Instead of focusing on weight loss, we can make reachable goals that are more behavior based.
(541) 631-5142 View (541) 631-5142
Photo of Carly Leanza, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Carly Leanza
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
6 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97236
Carly provides HAES-aligned care and emphasizes a non-diet approach for her nutrition counseling and evidenced-based interventions in several areas of health and nutrition, including but not limited to, pre- diabetes, type 2 diabetes, weight management, heart health, and GI management.
Carly loves structure and routine while also embracing creativity to meet each client where they are at. Nutrition is not a "one-size fits all" approach and Carly encourages her clients to be authentically themselves to provide optimal individualized care.
Carly provides HAES-aligned care and emphasizes a non-diet approach for her nutrition counseling and evidenced-based interventions in several areas of health and nutrition, including but not limited to, pre- diabetes, type 2 diabetes, weight management, heart health, and GI management.
Carly loves structure and routine while also embracing creativity to meet each client where they are at. Nutrition is not a "one-size fits all" approach and Carly encourages her clients to be authentically themselves to provide optimal individualized care.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Brayden Goldblatt, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Brayden Goldblatt
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Brayden’s specialties include weight management, weight loss/gain, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, heart-healthy nutrition therapy, oncology, enteral nutrition, as well as intuitive eating, disordered eating, Health at Every Size (HAES), mindful eating, and general wellness.
Brayden is a registered dietitian with a passion for health and wellness. She supports clients through realistic, sustainable lifestyle changes using a compassionate, inclusive, and client-centered approach. Brayden blends evidence-based nutrition with practical habits to help clients feel their best in the long term. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for exploring goals and challenges, offering personalized counseling and education to build lasting, meaningful change.
Brayden’s specialties include weight management, weight loss/gain, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, heart-healthy nutrition therapy, oncology, enteral nutrition, as well as intuitive eating, disordered eating, Health at Every Size (HAES), mindful eating, and general wellness.
Brayden is a registered dietitian with a passion for health and wellness. She supports clients through realistic, sustainable lifestyle changes using a compassionate, inclusive, and client-centered approach. Brayden blends evidence-based nutrition with practical habits to help clients feel their best in the long term. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for exploring goals and challenges, offering personalized counseling and education to build lasting, meaningful change.
(971) 365-3205 View (971) 365-3205
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 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
Photo of Marissa Weissbuch, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Marissa Weissbuch
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Marissa specializes in weight management, disordered eating, behavior modification, gut health, anti-inflammatory meal planning, GI disorders, food sensitivities, autoimmune disorders, thyroid disorders, PCOS, type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, kidney disease, liver disease, and malnutrition or unintentional weight loss.
Marissa, a dedicated Registered Dietitian, is passionate about helping others heal their relationship with food. Inspired by her own health journey, she brings empathy, understanding, and practical tools to guide clients in quieting “food noise” and finding sustainable balance. With a whole-person, individualized approach, she simplifies nutrition, making structure and routine attainable. Rejecting diet culture, she empowers clients to nourish their bodies, supporting digestion, metabolism, mental health, skin, and hormones.
Marissa specializes in weight management, disordered eating, behavior modification, gut health, anti-inflammatory meal planning, GI disorders, food sensitivities, autoimmune disorders, thyroid disorders, PCOS, type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, kidney disease, liver disease, and malnutrition or unintentional weight loss.
Marissa, a dedicated Registered Dietitian, is passionate about helping others heal their relationship with food. Inspired by her own health journey, she brings empathy, understanding, and practical tools to guide clients in quieting “food noise” and finding sustainable balance. With a whole-person, individualized approach, she simplifies nutrition, making structure and routine attainable. Rejecting diet culture, she empowers clients to nourish their bodies, supporting digestion, metabolism, mental health, skin, and hormones.
(213) 263-4843 View (213) 263-4843
Photo of Kerri Holmquist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
Kerri Holmquist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition.
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Gastrointestinal Disorders (IBS), Diabetes, Diabetes, Pregnancy Nutrition, and Weight Management. Other areas of practice/interest include Cardiac/Heart Health, Renal Disease, and intuitive eating.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition.
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Gastrointestinal Disorders (IBS), Diabetes, Diabetes, Pregnancy Nutrition, and Weight Management. Other areas of practice/interest include Cardiac/Heart Health, Renal Disease, and intuitive eating.
(704) 859-2677 View (704) 859-2677
Photo of Kaitlin Mueller - Wholesome Health, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CD, CDCES
Wholesome Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CD, CDCES
Portland, OR 97219
I love helping my clients achieve their ideal weight and manage any chronic health conditions. Nutrition is not one-size-fits-all, so I really spend the time getting to know my clients and offer a personalized plan that will work for you. If going in one direction doesn't work for you, we will regroup and try something else until we find a way to help you live your best possible life while still enjoying what you eat. I also offer meal planning services, complete with grocery lists and recipes!
I love helping my clients achieve their ideal weight and manage any chronic health conditions. Nutrition is not one-size-fits-all, so I really spend the time getting to know my clients and offer a personalized plan that will work for you. If going in one direction doesn't work for you, we will regroup and try something else until we find a way to help you live your best possible life while still enjoying what you eat. I also offer meal planning services, complete with grocery lists and recipes!
(971) 260-4461 View (971) 260-4461
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 Demi Evrigenis, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Demi Evrigenis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97230
Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach.
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre- Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach.
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre- Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
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
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 Sandra L. Moreno - Sandra L Moreno | NutriSandraRD | SLMC, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RDN, LD, CDCES
Sandra L Moreno | NutriSandraRD | SLMC, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RDN, LD, CDCES
Beaverton, OR 97005
I'm a Diabetes Educator, experienced in helping adults and children manage diabetes with oral medications, injectables and pump therapy.
I am committed to being an inclusive dietetic practice that weaves diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) into my practice. I follow the principles of being healthy at every size and will work with you on your medical nutritional therapy needs while honoring your culture.
I'm a Diabetes Educator, experienced in helping adults and children manage diabetes with oral medications, injectables and pump therapy.
I am committed to being an inclusive dietetic practice that weaves diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) into my practice. I follow the principles of being healthy at every size and will work with you on your medical nutritional therapy needs while honoring your culture.
(971) 224-7356 View (971) 224-7356
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 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
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.