Diabetes Nutritionists and Dietitians in Columbus, OH

Photo of Ashley Walls, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Ashley Walls
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Specialties include working with clients that need assistance with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Low FODMAP diet, GERD, Eating Disorders, Pre- diabetes, Diabetes, Heart conditions, High Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Celiac, Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis, Intuitive Eating, Underweight Nutrition, Malnutrition, Sports Nutrition.
Ashley Walls specializes in working with clients interested in general healthy eating, and conditions including Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Celiac, Crohn's, IBS, Intuitive Eating and more. With 3 years of experience at a residential treatment level, Ashley is well versed on the difficulties associated with co-occurring diagnosis and eating disorder recovery. She believes that all foods fit through practice of balance, variety and moderation. Her past experiences as an athlete and personal trainer has prompted a particular interest in sports nutrition.
Specialties include working with clients that need assistance with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Low FODMAP diet, GERD, Eating Disorders, Pre- diabetes, Diabetes, Heart conditions, High Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Celiac, Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis, Intuitive Eating, Underweight Nutrition, Malnutrition, Sports Nutrition.
Ashley Walls specializes in working with clients interested in general healthy eating, and conditions including Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Celiac, Crohn's, IBS, Intuitive Eating and more. With 3 years of experience at a residential treatment level, Ashley is well versed on the difficulties associated with co-occurring diagnosis and eating disorder recovery. She believes that all foods fit through practice of balance, variety and moderation. Her past experiences as an athlete and personal trainer has prompted a particular interest in sports nutrition.
(220) 234-1014 View (220) 234-1014
Photo of Holly Zabrin, MA,  RDN, LDN, CEDS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Holly Zabrin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RDN, LDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Chronic Dieting, Picky Eating, Gastrointestinal Disorders (IBS), Crohns, Diabetes, Food Allergies/Intolerances, Intuitive Eating, Health at Every Size, and body image concerns.
Holly is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, and Digestive issues. Holly is passionate about assisting her clients find peace with food and their bodies. She uses a weight inclusive and non-judgemental approach to support her patients in breaking harmful cycles of dieting. Holly has 3 years of experience treating clients with eating disorders in higher levels of care including residential (RES) and partial hospitalization program (PHP).
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Chronic Dieting, Picky Eating, Gastrointestinal Disorders (IBS), Crohns, Diabetes, Food Allergies/Intolerances, Intuitive Eating, Health at Every Size, and body image concerns.
Holly is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, and Digestive issues. Holly is passionate about assisting her clients find peace with food and their bodies. She uses a weight inclusive and non-judgemental approach to support her patients in breaking harmful cycles of dieting. Holly has 3 years of experience treating clients with eating disorders in higher levels of care including residential (RES) and partial hospitalization program (PHP).
(614) 756-2433 View (614) 756-2433
Photo of Colleen Elizabeth Bailey, MS, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Colleen Elizabeth Bailey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We work with clients who struggle with disordered eating, body image, diabetes, PCOS, IBS, IBD, changes in hormones, & so much more! Our goal is to put the power of eating back into your hands so you can take back control over your well-being.
Do you struggle with nutrition in a way that supports your physical AND mental health? Are you confused about all the misinformation you find so easily on the internet & social media? Have you ever felt out of control around food and wish you could just “normalize” your eating? Don’t know where to turn? I’m here to help!
We work with clients who struggle with disordered eating, body image, diabetes, PCOS, IBS, IBD, changes in hormones, & so much more! Our goal is to put the power of eating back into your hands so you can take back control over your well-being.
Do you struggle with nutrition in a way that supports your physical AND mental health? Are you confused about all the misinformation you find so easily on the internet & social media? Have you ever felt out of control around food and wish you could just “normalize” your eating? Don’t know where to turn? I’m here to help!
(380) 204-5166 View (380) 204-5166
Photo of Michael Hershey, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Michael Hershey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
I work with clients for weight loss, diabetes prevention and management, cholesterol, and blood pressure reduction, and general nutrition.
Online Registered Dietitian. I help you reach nutrition, weight loss, blood sugar or health goals with personalized approaches for your goals and preferences. Health insurance accepted! I am in network with Anthem, Aetna, Cigna, Medical Mutual of Ohio, Medicare, and United Healthcare. Most clients pay $0 out of pocket!
I work with clients for weight loss, diabetes prevention and management, cholesterol, and blood pressure reduction, and general nutrition.
Online Registered Dietitian. I help you reach nutrition, weight loss, blood sugar or health goals with personalized approaches for your goals and preferences. Health insurance accepted! I am in network with Anthem, Aetna, Cigna, Medical Mutual of Ohio, Medicare, and United Healthcare. Most clients pay $0 out of pocket!
(440) 294-6542 View (440) 294-6542
Photo of Kristin Woodbury, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kristin Woodbury
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Specialties include working with adults with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Crohn's, Diabetes, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition.
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Diabetes. Kristin offers a positive approach to nutrition by focusing on building a healthy relationship with food, making lifestyle changes, goal setting and problem solving to overcome barriers. She believes in staying positive, and that it’s never too late to make lifestyle changes that can lead to a healthier life. Kristin became a dietitian after the experience of caregiving in high school for her grandmother.
Specialties include working with adults with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Crohn's, Diabetes, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition.
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Diabetes. Kristin offers a positive approach to nutrition by focusing on building a healthy relationship with food, making lifestyle changes, goal setting and problem solving to overcome barriers. She believes in staying positive, and that it’s never too late to make lifestyle changes that can lead to a healthier life. Kristin became a dietitian after the experience of caregiving in high school for her grandmother.
(615) 909-4087 View (615) 909-4087
Photo of Jennifer Lattur, RDN, LD, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Jennifer Lattur
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CDCES
Verified Verified
Online Only
Sometimes it can feel like you’re fluctuating between “good” days and “bad” days: one minute you’re organized and proud of your food choices, the next it seems everything’s falling apart. Worse, everyone has an opinion on what you should eat without knowing what’s going on in your life. You’re not alone! My mission is to provide judgment-free nutrition counseling and support, whether you want to manage a chronic disease or just have more energy. Changing isn’t easy but I'm here to listen to and support you; we’ll uncover your motivations, set realistic goals, and plan for setbacks. Here's to your future self!
Sometimes it can feel like you’re fluctuating between “good” days and “bad” days: one minute you’re organized and proud of your food choices, the next it seems everything’s falling apart. Worse, everyone has an opinion on what you should eat without knowing what’s going on in your life. You’re not alone! My mission is to provide judgment-free nutrition counseling and support, whether you want to manage a chronic disease or just have more energy. Changing isn’t easy but I'm here to listen to and support you; we’ll uncover your motivations, set realistic goals, and plan for setbacks. Here's to your future self!
(330) 621-0184 View (330) 621-0184
Photo of Diane Christine Casey, MS, RD, LD, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Diane Christine Casey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CLT
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43221
You found the complete package! I am a licensed dietitian, certified health coach/personal trainer who also holds a certificate in Plant-Based Nutrition from Cornell University. I focus on helping clients prevent or reverse disease through lifestyle practices: eating, exercise, stress management & sleep. I love to empower clients to implement new habits that enable health goals to be reached. Since inflammation is the root of all disease, there is a major focus on reversing inflammation through how we eat and live. I provide the most personalized anti-inflammatory diet available by using the MRT blood test & micronutrient analyses.
You found the complete package! I am a licensed dietitian, certified health coach/personal trainer who also holds a certificate in Plant-Based Nutrition from Cornell University. I focus on helping clients prevent or reverse disease through lifestyle practices: eating, exercise, stress management & sleep. I love to empower clients to implement new habits that enable health goals to be reached. Since inflammation is the root of all disease, there is a major focus on reversing inflammation through how we eat and live. I provide the most personalized anti-inflammatory diet available by using the MRT blood test & micronutrient analyses.
(614) 503-1797 View (614) 503-1797
Photo of Adrienne Raimo - One Bite Wellness, RDN, LD, CHHP, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
One Bite Wellness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CHHP, CLT
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43219
Adrienne is an Integrative & Functional Dietitian with a private practice in Columbus, Ohio and extended service to clients nationwide and internationally. She has received her degrees from The Ohio State University and additional certification from Columbia University, Cornell University, and the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. For over 10 years, Adrienne has been delivering nutrition lectures, teaching cooking classes, providing individual nutrition consultations, as well as corporate wellness and medical lectures. She specializes in integrative endocrinology, neurology, and gastro-enterology to assist individuals with a range of health issues, as well as those seeking to achieve a higher level of wellness.
Adrienne is an Integrative & Functional Dietitian with a private practice in Columbus, Ohio and extended service to clients nationwide and internationally. She has received her degrees from The Ohio State University and additional certification from Columbia University, Cornell University, and the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. For over 10 years, Adrienne has been delivering nutrition lectures, teaching cooking classes, providing individual nutrition consultations, as well as corporate wellness and medical lectures. She specializes in integrative endocrinology, neurology, and gastro-enterology to assist individuals with a range of health issues, as well as those seeking to achieve a higher level of wellness.
(614) 887-7969 View (614) 887-7969
Photo of Angelina Caradonna - A. Nutrition Results LLC, RD, LD, CLT, LEAP, Nutritionist/Dietitian
A. Nutrition Results LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CLT, LEAP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43219
Nutritionresults.com Find those food triggers and feel good again! Prompt help for: Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Migraine Headaches, Allergies, Sensitivities, Intolerances, Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Skin Eruptions, Eczema, Non-Seasonal Chronic Sinusitis, Chronic Inflammation.
Nutritionresults.com Find those food triggers and feel good again! Prompt help for: Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Migraine Headaches, Allergies, Sensitivities, Intolerances, Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Skin Eruptions, Eczema, Non-Seasonal Chronic Sinusitis, Chronic Inflammation.
(614) 363-2725 View (614) 363-2725
Photo of Amiee Romans - Authentic Nutrition, RDN, LD, LMT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Authentic Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, LMT
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43212
Authentic Nutrition's holistic approach to wellness addresses the underlying causes of disease and dysfunction to create lasting change. By recognizing when and how your symptoms began we can use nutrition to improve your overall well-being. Authentic Nutrition is here to help you better understand and treat your personal signs and symptoms in a relaxed and nurturing environment. If you are suffering with gastrointestinal disorders, food sensitivities, weight management, cardiovascular disease or are seeking wellness, we can work together to create an individualized plan to suit your unique needs.
Authentic Nutrition's holistic approach to wellness addresses the underlying causes of disease and dysfunction to create lasting change. By recognizing when and how your symptoms began we can use nutrition to improve your overall well-being. Authentic Nutrition is here to help you better understand and treat your personal signs and symptoms in a relaxed and nurturing environment. If you are suffering with gastrointestinal disorders, food sensitivities, weight management, cardiovascular disease or are seeking wellness, we can work together to create an individualized plan to suit your unique needs.
(614) 412-3705 View (614) 412-3705
Photo of Audrey Clement, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Audrey Clement
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214
Are you tired of feeling confused by nutrition? Are you tired of not being able to reach your wellness and performance goals because of misinformation that leaves you feeling overwhelmed? As a Dietitian, I recognized a common trend across my clients—the limiting belief that one specific thing, whether it be a food, tool, or fad diet, would make or break their health. Composition Nutrition LLC is grounded in the knowledge that our health is a composition of choices we make over the span of days, weeks, months, and years—including what we eat. My goal is to make nutrition simple again by shifting focus to what truly matters.
Are you tired of feeling confused by nutrition? Are you tired of not being able to reach your wellness and performance goals because of misinformation that leaves you feeling overwhelmed? As a Dietitian, I recognized a common trend across my clients—the limiting belief that one specific thing, whether it be a food, tool, or fad diet, would make or break their health. Composition Nutrition LLC is grounded in the knowledge that our health is a composition of choices we make over the span of days, weeks, months, and years—including what we eat. My goal is to make nutrition simple again by shifting focus to what truly matters.
(614) 908-2885 View (614) 908-2885
Photo of Stephanie Vandergriff, MS, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Stephanie Vandergriff
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43210
"To live well we must eat well." Working as a registered dietitian, I strive daily to help individuals to be the healthiest version of themselves possible. My focus is centered on designing a multi-faceted, personalized nutrition plan based upon each person's needs, goals, and health concerns. These plans are created to be not only feasible and sustainable, but able to create lasting change. Over the years I have dedicated myself to teaching, coaching, and motivating my clients as they strive to eat better and live a more balanced life.
"To live well we must eat well." Working as a registered dietitian, I strive daily to help individuals to be the healthiest version of themselves possible. My focus is centered on designing a multi-faceted, personalized nutrition plan based upon each person's needs, goals, and health concerns. These plans are created to be not only feasible and sustainable, but able to create lasting change. Over the years I have dedicated myself to teaching, coaching, and motivating my clients as they strive to eat better and live a more balanced life.
(614) 412-5239 View (614) 412-5239
Photo of Katelyn Rybolt, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Katelyn Rybolt
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a registered dietitian/nutritionist with a NASM personal training certificate. I work in the acute care setting as well as for Nutrition Collaborative, LLC serving my clients via one-on-one coaching. We at Nutrition Collaborative educate patients, clients and the public about nutrition principles and strategies for long-term success. I work with the adult population (18+ years of age) looking to promote their health and well-being through nutrition and exercise. I pride myself in helping my clients find realistic ways to reach their health goals by formulating individualized plans while providing close follow up and feedback.
I am a registered dietitian/nutritionist with a NASM personal training certificate. I work in the acute care setting as well as for Nutrition Collaborative, LLC serving my clients via one-on-one coaching. We at Nutrition Collaborative educate patients, clients and the public about nutrition principles and strategies for long-term success. I work with the adult population (18+ years of age) looking to promote their health and well-being through nutrition and exercise. I pride myself in helping my clients find realistic ways to reach their health goals by formulating individualized plans while providing close follow up and feedback.
(513) 998-6550 View (513) 998-6550
Photo of Ashley Fitzgerald, RD, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Ashley Fitzgerald
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a plant-based dietitian and nutritionist, focusing on vegan and vegetarian diets. I have been plant-based and gluten free for over a decade. I offer personalized Zoom consultations, including a free 20-min introductory session. My services range from counseling to creating tailored meal plans, addressing weight management, balanced eating, meal prep, and more. I also cover specialized areas like sports nutrition, digestive health, and various life stages including pregnancy and menopause. For a full list of services, please visit our website's service section. I can take on clients from WA, MD, OH, TX, CA, AZ, and CO.
I'm a plant-based dietitian and nutritionist, focusing on vegan and vegetarian diets. I have been plant-based and gluten free for over a decade. I offer personalized Zoom consultations, including a free 20-min introductory session. My services range from counseling to creating tailored meal plans, addressing weight management, balanced eating, meal prep, and more. I also cover specialized areas like sports nutrition, digestive health, and various life stages including pregnancy and menopause. For a full list of services, please visit our website's service section. I can take on clients from WA, MD, OH, TX, CA, AZ, and CO.
(832) 653-9698 View (832) 653-9698
Photo of Anthony Beard, RDN, LD, CIEC, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Anthony Beard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CIEC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43201
In a 1995 Nutrition in Medical Science Class, I discovered that statistically, African Americans suffered disproportionately from many chronic diseases. I made it my goal in this life to discover a solution to alter the trajectory of the problem. I now help African-Americans develop a proper relationship with the food they eat by incorporating culture into the recipe of active living, glorious nutrition and wellness!
In a 1995 Nutrition in Medical Science Class, I discovered that statistically, African Americans suffered disproportionately from many chronic diseases. I made it my goal in this life to discover a solution to alter the trajectory of the problem. I now help African-Americans develop a proper relationship with the food they eat by incorporating culture into the recipe of active living, glorious nutrition and wellness!
(216) 666-5361 View (216) 666-5361
Photo of Nijya Noble - NK Fitness and Nutrition, MS, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
NK Fitness and Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43203
Starting March 2024 I will be on Maternity Leave. Please check website and social media for updates and availability. Nijya makes healthy eating easy! Nijya has a passion for all things Fitness & Nutrition! Nijya is also an adjunct professor leading out in Nutrition and Healthy Lifestyle courses. Nijya has a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Athletic Training from Bowling Green State University and a Master’s of Science in Nutrition, Healthspan, and Longevity from The University of Southern California. Nijya loves helping her clients reach their nutrition and fitness goals! IG/TikTok: NijyaTheDietitian.
Starting March 2024 I will be on Maternity Leave. Please check website and social media for updates and availability. Nijya makes healthy eating easy! Nijya has a passion for all things Fitness & Nutrition! Nijya is also an adjunct professor leading out in Nutrition and Healthy Lifestyle courses. Nijya has a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Athletic Training from Bowling Green State University and a Master’s of Science in Nutrition, Healthspan, and Longevity from The University of Southern California. Nijya loves helping her clients reach their nutrition and fitness goals! IG/TikTok: NijyaTheDietitian.
(614) 618-3260 View (614) 618-3260

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Jordan Ouellette, MS, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Jordan Ouellette
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Jordan Ouellette, and I am a Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist, and co-owner of Nutrition Empowered, LLC. I work with men and women who want to improve their relationship with food, and eat a diverse range of foods in order to feel their best mentally and physically. At Nutrition Empowered, LLC, our dietitians are Health at Every Size-aligned, and centered around intuitive eating with a weight-inclusive approach to nutrition. Other specialties include general nutrition and wellness, diabetes management, cholesterol and hypertension, IBD/IBS, fertility, PCOS, and pre and postnatal nutrition.
My name is Jordan Ouellette, and I am a Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist, and co-owner of Nutrition Empowered, LLC. I work with men and women who want to improve their relationship with food, and eat a diverse range of foods in order to feel their best mentally and physically. At Nutrition Empowered, LLC, our dietitians are Health at Every Size-aligned, and centered around intuitive eating with a weight-inclusive approach to nutrition. Other specialties include general nutrition and wellness, diabetes management, cholesterol and hypertension, IBD/IBS, fertility, PCOS, and pre and postnatal nutrition.
(380) 201-9642 View (380) 201-9642
Photo of Sydney Wiseman, RD, LDN, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Sydney Wiseman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Verified Verified
Online Only
Specialties include: eating disorders, health coaching, general diet and nutrition, lifestyle and diabetes management.
Sydney is a registered dietitian who strives to empower clients to cultivate a positive relationship with food and their bodies, honoring diverse backgrounds and experiences every step of the way. Whether navigating the complexities of an eating disorder or seeking a supportive environment to heal, Sydney provides personalized guidance and unwavering support on the journey towards holistic well-being. Sydney uses a patient-centered and evidence-based approach to working with clients, prioritizing patient goals along with both their physical and mental well-being.
Specialties include: eating disorders, health coaching, general diet and nutrition, lifestyle and diabetes management.
Sydney is a registered dietitian who strives to empower clients to cultivate a positive relationship with food and their bodies, honoring diverse backgrounds and experiences every step of the way. Whether navigating the complexities of an eating disorder or seeking a supportive environment to heal, Sydney provides personalized guidance and unwavering support on the journey towards holistic well-being. Sydney uses a patient-centered and evidence-based approach to working with clients, prioritizing patient goals along with both their physical and mental well-being.
(346) 572-9634 View (346) 572-9634
Photo of Jacquelyn Phillips, MS, RD, LD, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Jacquelyn Phillips
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CDCES
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Jacquelyn Phillips! I provide personalized nutrition counseling to help people like you establish long-term healthy nutrition and eating habits, customized for your unique needs. No restriction or dieting needed. I look forward to working with you!
Hi, I'm Jacquelyn Phillips! I provide personalized nutrition counseling to help people like you establish long-term healthy nutrition and eating habits, customized for your unique needs. No restriction or dieting needed. I look forward to working with you!
(330) 997-3886 View (330) 997-3886
Photo of Lindsey Fausnaugh - Thyme To Get Healthy , RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Thyme To Get Healthy
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Verified Verified
Mount Sterling, OH 43143
Do you believe that nutrition can improve your health? Are you ready to start leading a healthier life but just don't know how to get started? Dietitian Lindsey Fausnaugh offers convenient virtual nutrition sessions through her small local business Thyme to Get Healthy. Most major health insurance is accepted.
Do you believe that nutrition can improve your health? Are you ready to start leading a healthier life but just don't know how to get started? Dietitian Lindsey Fausnaugh offers convenient virtual nutrition sessions through her small local business Thyme to Get Healthy. Most major health insurance is accepted.
(740) 872-7817 View (740) 872-7817
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.