Diabetes Nutritionists and Dietitians in Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Brittany Norem, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Brittany Norem
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
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 Brianne Herber, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Brianne Herber
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204
Specialties include Bariatric surgery nutrition (Pre and post op), Weight management, Diabetes, Pre- Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, gout, general healthy eating
Brianne is a registered dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. She enjoys working with clients to provide individualized support in reaching their health goals and achieving sustainable lifestyle changes. Her perspective is rooted in meeting a patient where they are at in their journey with no judgment. She believes wholeheartedly that the approach with nutrition, eating and health is not one size fits all and strives to support patients in each of their unique journeys, one step at a time.
Specialties include Bariatric surgery nutrition (Pre and post op), Weight management, Diabetes, Pre- Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, gout, general healthy eating
Brianne is a registered dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. She enjoys working with clients to provide individualized support in reaching their health goals and achieving sustainable lifestyle changes. Her perspective is rooted in meeting a patient where they are at in their journey with no judgment. She believes wholeheartedly that the approach with nutrition, eating and health is not one size fits all and strives to support patients in each of their unique journeys, one step at a time.
(515) 375-7850 View (515) 375-7850
Photo of Sara Murray, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Sara Murray
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Jacksonville, FL 32224
I am a Registered and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist and a Board Certified Renal (Kidney) Nutrition Specialist. When I initially pursued a career in nutrition I was drawn to the idea that something as basic as food could have such a profound effect on health. Now my goal is to provide my clients with the most up-to-date nutrition advice backed by science, so they can feel empowered around food (even if they have a chronic disease). I was born and raised in north Florida and now reside in central Florida with my husband, son, and dog.
I am a Registered and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist and a Board Certified Renal (Kidney) Nutrition Specialist. When I initially pursued a career in nutrition I was drawn to the idea that something as basic as food could have such a profound effect on health. Now my goal is to provide my clients with the most up-to-date nutrition advice backed by science, so they can feel empowered around food (even if they have a chronic disease). I was born and raised in north Florida and now reside in central Florida with my husband, son, and dog.
(630) 526-7973 View (630) 526-7973
Photo of Frances Catherine Siver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT, IFNCP
Frances Catherine Siver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT, IFNCP
Jacksonville, FL 32259
Struggling with IBS, GERD, IBD, or other gastrointestinal issues like bloating, gas, belching, and constipation? Tired of frequent headaches, migraines, achy joints and skin rashes? Would you like to finally achieve your goal weight? Do you want feel better and have more energy? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then I am ready to help you reach your health goals. With my advanced skills and training, I am uniquely qualified to help you in identifying all the factors of your health concerns.
Struggling with IBS, GERD, IBD, or other gastrointestinal issues like bloating, gas, belching, and constipation? Tired of frequent headaches, migraines, achy joints and skin rashes? Would you like to finally achieve your goal weight? Do you want feel better and have more energy? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then I am ready to help you reach your health goals. With my advanced skills and training, I am uniquely qualified to help you in identifying all the factors of your health concerns.
(904) 204-0571 View (904) 204-0571
Photo of Daniel Goebel, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CSSD
Daniel Goebel
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CSSD
Serves Area
Work with you every step of the way to meet your nutrition and performance goals. Whether you are looking to find ways to improve your eating habits, lose weight and build strength, or manage a chronic disease, I will take a personal and individualized approach to helping you clients reach your goals.
Work with you every step of the way to meet your nutrition and performance goals. Whether you are looking to find ways to improve your eating habits, lose weight and build strength, or manage a chronic disease, I will take a personal and individualized approach to helping you clients reach your goals.
(339) 229-5210 View (339) 229-5210
Photo of Summer Spires - InSpires Wellness, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES
InSpires Wellness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults (18+) navigating diabetes, disordered eating, eating disorders, and mental health challenges.
I offer personalized support—not diets—along with tools like mindfulness, nervous system regulation, and a safe space to heal the relationship with food, body, and self.
I work with adults (18+) navigating diabetes, disordered eating, eating disorders, and mental health challenges.
I offer personalized support—not diets—along with tools like mindfulness, nervous system regulation, and a safe space to heal the relationship with food, body, and self.
(321) 248-9789 View (321) 248-9789
Photo of Ellen Muhammad, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CDCES, CLT
Ellen Muhammad
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CDCES, CLT
Online Only
Being healthy starts with proper nutrition because food impacts so much including: good health, weight loss, diabetes management and even healing from symptoms (migraines, IBS, fibromyalgia, joint pain and fatigue) caused by food sensitivities.
I am Registered Dietitian, who has completed several additional advanced certifications in diabetes (CDE) and food sensitivities (CLT) dietary treatments. Distinguished as a qualified expert, I am passionate about helping clients restore their health through personalized nutrition and lifestyle programs. Allow me to guide you toward YOUR path of wellness!
Being healthy starts with proper nutrition because food impacts so much including: good health, weight loss, diabetes management and even healing from symptoms (migraines, IBS, fibromyalgia, joint pain and fatigue) caused by food sensitivities.
I am Registered Dietitian, who has completed several additional advanced certifications in diabetes (CDE) and food sensitivities (CLT) dietary treatments. Distinguished as a qualified expert, I am passionate about helping clients restore their health through personalized nutrition and lifestyle programs. Allow me to guide you toward YOUR path of wellness!
(773) 245-1915 View (773) 245-1915
Photo of Linda Lockett Brown - CINET Registered Dietitians & Wellness, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
CINET Registered Dietitians & Wellness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Serves Area
Diabetes.
You are an unique individual. Your nutritional needs and lifestyle are unique. After a comprehensive evaluation, we will develop meal plans together that meet your lifestyle. We don't do diets. We show you how to eat. Our clients range in age from 8-80. Our successes include 60 pound weight losses, decreased or eliminated medications, decreased fear of eating. We won't leave you hanging. We are there to support and cheer you on. Services are provided in the office or online. We look forward to helping you be the best that you can be!
Diabetes.
You are an unique individual. Your nutritional needs and lifestyle are unique. After a comprehensive evaluation, we will develop meal plans together that meet your lifestyle. We don't do diets. We show you how to eat. Our clients range in age from 8-80. Our successes include 60 pound weight losses, decreased or eliminated medications, decreased fear of eating. We won't leave you hanging. We are there to support and cheer you on. Services are provided in the office or online. We look forward to helping you be the best that you can be!
(904) 569-5423 View (904) 569-5423
Photo of Rose Washington, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Rose Washington
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Preventing diabetes through nutrition and exercise, losing and maintaining weight, lowering and managing cholesterol/high blood pressure through Mediterranean style meal plans or adjusting your current style of eating to meet your health goals while moving more.
Cultural foods are tasty, but not always healthy. Together, we will create a wellness plan that will empower and motivate you to achieve your weight loss goals! Your relationship with food will continue to be full of love and flavor as you lose weight without sacrificing your favorites!
Preventing diabetes through nutrition and exercise, losing and maintaining weight, lowering and managing cholesterol/high blood pressure through Mediterranean style meal plans or adjusting your current style of eating to meet your health goals while moving more.
Cultural foods are tasty, but not always healthy. Together, we will create a wellness plan that will empower and motivate you to achieve your weight loss goals! Your relationship with food will continue to be full of love and flavor as you lose weight without sacrificing your favorites!
(747) 298-8742 View (747) 298-8742
Photo of Jenny Antony, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSPCC, LD
Jenny Antony
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSPCC, LD
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Specialties Include: Pediatrics, Weight Gain, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Disordered Eating, Pre/Postnatal Nutrition, Mindful and Intuitive Eating, Cancer, Diabetes, Transplant, Weight Loss, Weight Management, and General Nutrition
Jenny is a registered dietitian who has helped people manage their nutrition and weight through some of the most critical times of their lives. She has worked with conditions including weight loss, pregnancy, postpartum, poor weight gain, feeding difficulties, gastrointestinal disease, congenital heart disease, transplant, and inborn errors of metabolism. She loves working with children and adults alike and believes there is something to learn from every client she meets. Jenny strives to be a good listener and understand her clients' goals and struggles.
Specialties Include: Pediatrics, Weight Gain, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Disordered Eating, Pre/Postnatal Nutrition, Mindful and Intuitive Eating, Cancer, Diabetes, Transplant, Weight Loss, Weight Management, and General Nutrition
Jenny is a registered dietitian who has helped people manage their nutrition and weight through some of the most critical times of their lives. She has worked with conditions including weight loss, pregnancy, postpartum, poor weight gain, feeding difficulties, gastrointestinal disease, congenital heart disease, transplant, and inborn errors of metabolism. She loves working with children and adults alike and believes there is something to learn from every client she meets. Jenny strives to be a good listener and understand her clients' goals and struggles.
(904) 595-9730 View (904) 595-9730
Photo of Emily Rose Conyers - NuSparkle Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSR, LD/N
NuSparkle Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSR, LD/N
Online Only
NuSparkle Nutrition is the dietitian nutritionist practice of Emily Conyers. Emily provides nutrition education & counseling for people with chronic kidney disease and people seeking help with weight management (losing or gaining weight). Emily is a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition through the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Emily's goal is to help these individuals optimize their nutrition without feeling restricted, enabling them to improve their strength and gain confidence in their eating habits.
NuSparkle Nutrition is the dietitian nutritionist practice of Emily Conyers. Emily provides nutrition education & counseling for people with chronic kidney disease and people seeking help with weight management (losing or gaining weight). Emily is a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition through the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Emily's goal is to help these individuals optimize their nutrition without feeling restricted, enabling them to improve their strength and gain confidence in their eating habits.
(904) 267-0210 View (904) 267-0210
Photo of Nadia Pugh, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Nadia Pugh
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32211
Nadia is passionate about women’s health, PCOS, fertility, thyroid and autoimmune disorders, renal health, and diabetes management.
Specialties include: fertility (prenatal nutrition), hormone challenges, PCOS, autoimmune disorders, diabetes, heart health, renal and chronic kidney disease management., pediatrics, disordered eating, generalized healthy eating, ketogenic diet, tube feed management, GI health, weight loss and weight promotion.
Nadia is passionate about women’s health, PCOS, fertility, thyroid and autoimmune disorders, renal health, and diabetes management.
Specialties include: fertility (prenatal nutrition), hormone challenges, PCOS, autoimmune disorders, diabetes, heart health, renal and chronic kidney disease management., pediatrics, disordered eating, generalized healthy eating, ketogenic diet, tube feed management, GI health, weight loss and weight promotion.
(904) 650-5357 View (904) 650-5357
Photo of Nadia Pugh, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Nadia Pugh
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32218
Nadia is passionate about women’s health, PCOS, fertility, thyroid and autoimmune disorders, renal health, and diabetes management.
Specialties include: fertility (prenatal nutrition), hormone challenges, PCOS, autoimmune disorders, diabetes, heart health, renal and chronic kidney disease management., pediatrics, disordered eating, generalized healthy eating, ketogenic diet, tube feed management, GI health, weight loss and weight promotion.
Nadia is passionate about women’s health, PCOS, fertility, thyroid and autoimmune disorders, renal health, and diabetes management.
Specialties include: fertility (prenatal nutrition), hormone challenges, PCOS, autoimmune disorders, diabetes, heart health, renal and chronic kidney disease management., pediatrics, disordered eating, generalized healthy eating, ketogenic diet, tube feed management, GI health, weight loss and weight promotion.
(904) 567-0490 View (904) 567-0490
Photo of Ciara Dove-Reid - 3 In 1 Nutrition LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 In 1 Nutrition LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Online Only
God is very attentive to reproductive disorders. Throughout scripture, we see him opening the womb of the barren, protecting the womb during pregnancy, curing menstrual disorders, and allowing couples to conceive under the most likely conditions. It goes to show you how important it is to include God on your journey of reproductive health. That is why at 3 In 1 Nutrition, we not only apply the latest evidence in nutrition science to help you manage reproductive disorders, but we also incorporate Christian lifestyle coaching to ensure you are putting your trust in God's will, and following God’s template for a healthy life.
God is very attentive to reproductive disorders. Throughout scripture, we see him opening the womb of the barren, protecting the womb during pregnancy, curing menstrual disorders, and allowing couples to conceive under the most likely conditions. It goes to show you how important it is to include God on your journey of reproductive health. That is why at 3 In 1 Nutrition, we not only apply the latest evidence in nutrition science to help you manage reproductive disorders, but we also incorporate Christian lifestyle coaching to ensure you are putting your trust in God's will, and following God’s template for a healthy life.
(904) 395-4547 View (904) 395-4547
Photo of Emily Carlile - Emily Laraine Wellness, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Emily Laraine Wellness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Online Only
A constant chase after solutions to your ​health problems can leave you feeling like ​you're running a marathon with no finish ​line in sight. Believe me, I've been there! ​Several years ago, I went to doctor after ​doctor, researched for hours, and tried ​countless treatments that didn't seem to ​make a difference in my health. I was ​confused, frustrated and tired. That's why ​I took matters into my own hands to ​pursue a Master's of Science in Human ​Nutrition. Now, equipped with ​experience and knowledge, I’m here to ​guide you in overcoming those persistent ​health obstacles.
A constant chase after solutions to your ​health problems can leave you feeling like ​you're running a marathon with no finish ​line in sight. Believe me, I've been there! ​Several years ago, I went to doctor after ​doctor, researched for hours, and tried ​countless treatments that didn't seem to ​make a difference in my health. I was ​confused, frustrated and tired. That's why ​I took matters into my own hands to ​pursue a Master's of Science in Human ​Nutrition. Now, equipped with ​experience and knowledge, I’m here to ​guide you in overcoming those persistent ​health obstacles.
(904) 606-1559 View (904) 606-1559
Photo of Stacy Seslowsky - Heal From Food , Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Heal From Food
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32210
I know what it feels like to be frustrated & sad about your physical condition. One pill after another is not the answer. Through 20 years of education and experience in nutrition and functional medicine, I have learned how to find the root cause of imbalance and work together with patients using an online platform to transform and restore good health. Health & weight issues are most often related to gut, hormone, or immune imbalance. A uniquely designed food and lifestyle modification plan can & will change your health status. Do not lose hope. My process works for even the most challenging of cases.- Stacy Seslowsky, RD, LDN, MS
I know what it feels like to be frustrated & sad about your physical condition. One pill after another is not the answer. Through 20 years of education and experience in nutrition and functional medicine, I have learned how to find the root cause of imbalance and work together with patients using an online platform to transform and restore good health. Health & weight issues are most often related to gut, hormone, or immune imbalance. A uniquely designed food and lifestyle modification plan can & will change your health status. Do not lose hope. My process works for even the most challenging of cases.- Stacy Seslowsky, RD, LDN, MS
(904) 899-4955 View (904) 899-4955
Photo of Emma Wood, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Emma Wood
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204
Specialties include working with clients that are interested in Weight Management, Hormonal Imbalances, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility Nutrition, Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition, Bariatric Surgery, GERD, Type II Diabetes, and Thyroid Conditions
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
Specialties include working with clients that are interested in Weight Management, Hormonal Imbalances, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility Nutrition, Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition, Bariatric Surgery, GERD, Type II Diabetes, and Thyroid Conditions
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
(904) 454-8105 View (904) 454-8105
Photo of Julia Damman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Julia Damman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204
Specialties include working with clients interested in Weight Management, Infertility Nutrition, Pre/Post Natal, Hormonal Imbalances, PCOS, Oncology, GI Disorders (Celiac Disease, IBS Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease, IBD, Constipation, GERD Management), Cardiovascular Disease, Diabetes, Anti-Inflammation Diets, Sports nutrition
Julia is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with clients with PCOS, Pre/Postpartum Nutrition, Infertility, GI Disorders, and other areas. Julia believes nutrition has the power to both heal and prevent illnesses. For this reason she has made it her mission to help others utilize nutrition to fuel themselves and live their best lives. Julia promotes individualized nutrition and prides herself on working one-on-one with clients to discover their individual needs.
Specialties include working with clients interested in Weight Management, Infertility Nutrition, Pre/Post Natal, Hormonal Imbalances, PCOS, Oncology, GI Disorders (Celiac Disease, IBS Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease, IBD, Constipation, GERD Management), Cardiovascular Disease, Diabetes, Anti-Inflammation Diets, Sports nutrition
Julia is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with clients with PCOS, Pre/Postpartum Nutrition, Infertility, GI Disorders, and other areas. Julia believes nutrition has the power to both heal and prevent illnesses. For this reason she has made it her mission to help others utilize nutrition to fuel themselves and live their best lives. Julia promotes individualized nutrition and prides herself on working one-on-one with clients to discover their individual needs.
(904) 601-1243 View (904) 601-1243
Photo of Katie Gross, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Katie Gross
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Katie specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Disordered Eating, Digestive issues (IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormone Health (PCOS, etc.), Oncology Nutritional needs, Thyroid Disorders, Weight Management, Diabetes, General Healthy Eating, GERD, and interested in Sports Nutrition.
Katie is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist that collaborates with all clients to create sustainable lifestyle changes that support their overall health and well-being. Food acts as fuel but also has the ability to cultivate memories, emotions and traditions. She believes that food should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. With an “all foods fit”, body positive approach, Katie focuses on identifying individual barriers and personal preferences as she works closely to establish confidence in clients reaching their unique goals.
Katie specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Disordered Eating, Digestive issues (IBS, IBD, Low FODMAP), Hormone Health (PCOS, etc.), Oncology Nutritional needs, Thyroid Disorders, Weight Management, Diabetes, General Healthy Eating, GERD, and interested in Sports Nutrition.
Katie is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist that collaborates with all clients to create sustainable lifestyle changes that support their overall health and well-being. Food acts as fuel but also has the ability to cultivate memories, emotions and traditions. She believes that food should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. With an “all foods fit”, body positive approach, Katie focuses on identifying individual barriers and personal preferences as she works closely to establish confidence in clients reaching their unique goals.
(612) 326-0011 View (612) 326-0011
Photo of Maria Seitz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Maria Seitz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204
Maria is a Registered Dietitian who strongly believes in improving physical, mental, and emotional health through nutrition. Maria enjoys using her clinical background to help others navigate their unique nutritional needs by providing individualized interventions. Maria believes in a patient-centered, evidenced-based approach to nutrition care. She will help you achieve your nutrition goals through education, counseling, and therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure response prevention therapy, and medical nutrition therapy.
Maria is a Registered Dietitian who strongly believes in improving physical, mental, and emotional health through nutrition. Maria enjoys using her clinical background to help others navigate their unique nutritional needs by providing individualized interventions. Maria believes in a patient-centered, evidenced-based approach to nutrition care. She will help you achieve your nutrition goals through education, counseling, and therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure response prevention therapy, and medical nutrition therapy.
(872) 259-9747 View (872) 259-9747
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.