Medications or lifestyle change with medical nutrition therapy

Abstract

The United States is experiencing epidemics of both diabetes and obesity. Lifestyle intervention, including medical nutrition therapy (MNT), has been demonstrated to be clinically effective for the prevention and treatment of diabetes; however, it is often underutilized. The majority of people with diabetes are cared for by primary care providers. They should be providing persons with diabetes initial basic nutrition messages that are accurate and can be easily understood; referring to a registered dietitian; following up on the person's progress with nutrition intervention; and providing continued education and support. MNT, along with physical activity, should be the initial monotherapy for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, upon the initial diagnosis and given the blood glucose level is less than 200 mg/dL. The success of MNT is usually seen within 6 weeks and up to a maximum of 6 months. This is the point at which the person with diabetes and their provider(s) should decide whether MNT alone is succeeding or whether medication is needed.