What is Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 Diabetes is a condition that affects your body’s ability to properly use and store energy from food. It is caused by a decrease in your body’s sensitivity to insulin, one of the body’s metabolic hormones. Type 2 Diabetes is diagnosed when blood glucose levels are consistently higher than the normal range. Your doctor will diagnose pre-diabetes (also known as insulin resistance), or Type 2 Diabetes, depending on your test results.
How does Type 2 Diabetes impact how your body uses the food you eat?
To better understand the dietary actions that help to manage Type 2 Diabetes it is important to be aware that diabetes affects more than just your body’s ability to use and store sugars. Type 2 Diabetes is a metabolic disorder which means it affects all aspects of our metabolic function. Diabetes affects how your body uses and stores sugars, fats and proteins. Diabetes also affects the tiny blood vessels that feed oxygen to our feet and hands, and our organs such as our heart, liver and kidneys. If you are diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes it is important that you have a well-balanced dietary pattern that supports your body in all aspects of metabolic function.
What is a Dietitian’s role in supporting you to manage Type 2 Diabetes?
An Accredited Practicing Dietitian is an expert in nutrition and metabolic function. Dietitians are the only health practitioner qualified to provide food and nutrition advice to people with a clinical condition such as Type 2 Diabetes. At Your Path to Health your dietitian will take you through a comprehensive nutritional health assessment. They will also take time to understand your relationship with food, your understanding of diabetes and other health concerns you may have. Your dietitian will support you with more than just what to eat. With a dietitian at Your Path to Health you will learn how you can personally achieve dietary changes that fit your life as well as your diabetic and general health needs.
What to expect on your first visit.
It is not necessary to come with a referral, however your dietitian will review any information provided by yourself or your referring practitioner before your appointment. In your first consultation you will be taken through an initial assessment in which you will discuss your personal goals, any concerns you may have, and your approach to food. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions you might have. Your dietitian will also help you to identify any areas in which you may need extra support. At the end of your initial consultation your dietitian will summarise your discussion and set a treatment plan that suits your needs and funding.
At Your Path to Health your dietitian will meet you where you are at with simple steps that support you to achieve the dietary change that is required for ongoing diabetic and metabolic management.
Written by:
Klara Suessenbach – Dietitian, APD, CEDC