Role of Food and Nutrition Professionals in Stemming the Diabetes Epidemic

Abstract

Food and nutrition professionals can play a major role in reversing the diabetes epidemic by helping patients reduce their risk for diabetes and prevent its onset. The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) clinical trial, spearheaded by the National Institutes of Health, has provided the research-based evidence needed to demonstrate that type 2 diabetes can be delayed or prevented through a 5% to 7% weight loss and regular physical activity, such as 150 minutes a week of brisk walking. The National Diabetes Education Program, through its “Small Steps. Big Rewards. Prevent Type 2 Diabetes” initiative, has translated the lifestyle intervention used in the DPP for health care professionals. The initiative includes a health care professional toolkit, user-friendly weight-loss materials for patients, and a mass media campaign to increase awareness that diabetes can be delayed or prevented. Food and nutrition professionals can access these materials free of charge online or through the National Diabetes Education Program clearinghouse. By applying the lessons learned from the DPP to patients at risk for diabetes, food and nutrition professionals can make a substantial contribution to reversing the diabetes epidemic.