[Marlena Morrison]

If patient is newly diagnosed and no metabolic decompensation. I discuss the foundation of diabetes management through lifestyle intervention (diet, exercise) I usually discuss the basics (what are carbohydrates, what foods contain carbohydrates, the role of protein, fat and fibre) and the importance of portioning when it comes to meals using the plate model. We often will do a diet recall so that we can make our discussion applicable to the patient’s every day diet. We discuss nutrition not as an all or nothing approach, but discuss changes the patient can see themselves making, focus on foods they enjoy etc. If pt requires more in depth discussion around diet, they are referred to a Registered Dietician.