Nutritional Considerations for Diabetic Patients on Diabetes Medication.

Ju,  Dal Lae

doi:2014.15.1.35

J Korean Diabetes > Volume 15(1); 2014 > Article

Information Desk

The Journal of Korean Diabetes 2014;15(1):35-40.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.4093/jkd.2014.15.1.35 Published online March 31, 2014.

당뇨병 약물 치료 시 식사 고려사항

주달래

Nutritional Considerations for Diabetic Patients on Diabetes Medication.

Dal Lae Ju

Department of Food Service and Nutrition Care, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea. jurea@snuh.org

Abstract

Individuals who have diabetes should receive individualized medical nutrition therapy (MNT) based on an assessment of the individual's current eating patterns, preferences, and metabolic goals. The dietician should be able to coordinate food choices with the type of diabetes medicine being taken. Knowledge of the actions, side effects, and contraindication of diabetes medicine can help the dietician coordinate appropriate MNT and physical activity, to assist the individual with diabetes to achieve optimal glycemic control without unwanted effects. Carbohydrate consistency is important for diabetic patients on oral diabetes medications. The primary side effects with initial treatment of biguanides, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, and incretin mimetics include gastrointestinal discomfort, which can be minimized by taking the medication with food, starting at a low dosage, and increasing the dosage slowly. Common side effects from use of insulin and insulin secretagogues (sulfonylureas and meglitinides) are hypoglycemia and weight gain. Consistent meal times and carbohydrate consistency are important to reduce risk of hypoglycemia. Energy restriction, reduced fat intake, regular physical activity, and avoidance of frequent hypoglycemia can be beneficial in preventing or limiting weight gain. The insulin regimen should be fitted to the meal plan and adjusted over time based on the results of blood glucose monitoring.

Key Words: Diabetes mellitus, Medicine, Nutrition therapy