Diabetes Nutritionists and Dietitians in 97222

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

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

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 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 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 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 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
Serves Area
I am a specialized dietitian in diabetes and clinical nutrition.
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 am a specialized dietitian in diabetes and clinical nutrition.
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 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 Mikalah Barem, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Mikalah Barem
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Portland, OR 97232
My experience includes supporting clients with various health conditions including eating disorders, PCOS, diabetes, Crohn's, liver disease, celiac nutrition, vegan/vegetarian and more.
I provide individualized nutrition counseling, using intuitive eating and clinical nutrition principles. I love engaging my clients with food exposures and food habituation, challenging the diet narrative, and especially using somatic and mindfulness based body work.
My experience includes supporting clients with various health conditions including eating disorders, PCOS, diabetes, Crohn's, liver disease, celiac nutrition, vegan/vegetarian and more.
I provide individualized nutrition counseling, using intuitive eating and clinical nutrition principles. I love engaging my clients with food exposures and food habituation, challenging the diet narrative, and especially using somatic and mindfulness based body work.
(503) 461-9950 View (503) 461-9950
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Leo Rosen - 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
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.