Diabetes UK evidence-based nutrition guidelines for the prevention and management of diabetes

Abstract

A summary of the latest evidence-based nutrition guidelines for the prevention and management of diabetes are presented. These guidelines are based upon existing recommendations last published in 2011 and were formulated by an expert panel of specialist dietitians following a literature review of recent evidence. Recommendations have been made in terms of foods rather than nutrients wherever possible. Guidelines for education and care delivery, prevention of Type 2 diabetes, glycaemic control for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular risk management, management of diabetes-related complications, other considerations including co-morbidities, nutrition support, pregnancy and lactation, eating disorders, micronutrients, food supplements, functional foods, commercial diabetic foods and nutritive and non-nutritive sweeteners are included. The sections on pregnancy and prevention of Type 2 diabetes have been enlarged and the weight management section modified to include considerations of remission of Type 2 diabetes. A section evaluating detailed considerations in ethnic minorities has been included as a new topic. The guidelines were graded using adapted GRADE methodology and where strong evidence was lacking, grading was not allocated. These 2018 guidelines emphasise a flexible, individualised approach to diabetes management and weight loss and highlight the emerging evidence for remission of Type 2 diabetes.