Dietary regimens for persons with type 2 diabetes: Recommendations, issues and potential solutions

Public health aspects Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global public health problem, and the number of patients in the world is reaching epidemic proportions [1]. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that, globally, 422 million adults aged over 18 years were living with diabetes in 2014, out of which over 95% with T2DM [2]. The number of patients worldwide is constantly Summary Introduction. Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a global public health problem. Altered dietary habits and modern lifestyle lead to obesity and insulin resistance, the main factors in the pathogenesis of this disease. Dietary Regimens for Patients with Type 2 Diabetes. There is no consensus on the most appropriate dietary therapy for glycemic control and long-term weight loss. Individualized approach, based on metabolic needs and goals of each patient, is recommended. Because of the relationship between the body mass and insulin resistance, permanent weight loss is the strategy recommended to obese patients with diabetes. Permanent weight loss is achieved by reducing caloric intake and increased physical activity. Issues. Although careful nutrition is an essential control element of this disease, most patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus consider dietary recommendations too restrictive and reject them, leading to poor glycemic control in over 60% of patients. The feeling of frustration and hopelessness, fear that they will be deprived of their favourite foods, fear that treatment of diabetes will negatively affect their social life, lead to escapism into forbidden foods. Potential solutions. Understanding, knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of patients about the importance of dietary regimens in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus are crucial in the new approach of education and public health policies that will support wider acceptance of dietary habits and lead to a better control of the disease. Providing more quality time between doctors and patients for better communication is part of this comprehensive approach, which is the only way to stop the global epidemic of type 2 diabetes.