Question

Keisha is a 42-year-old black female with a BMI of 29. She was recently diagnosed with diabetes and hypertension. Her mother and two sisters also have type 2 diabetes. She is the mother of three children and had gestational diabetes with her last two pregnancies. Although she knows she should exercise, she doesn't have time in her busy schedule. The doctor gave her a 1500-calorie diet and told her if her glucose does not improve, she will have to go on medication and, possibly insulin. She has tried the "diet" but finds it too restrictive: It tells her to eat things she doesn't like (such as milk) and won't let her eat the things she loves (like sweetened tea and fast foods). She is scared of the potential for needing insulin and the complications associated with diabetes.

• What risk factors does Keisha have for type 2 diabetes? • Is a 1500-calorie diet appropriate for her? Should it promote weight loss or maintain her current weight? • What would you tell Keisha about weight and diabetes management? • What would you tell her about drinking milk? What about sweetened tea and fast foods? • What approaches would you take to improve compliance yet increase her satisfaction with eating? • What other lifestyle changes would you propose to Keisha to manage diabetes and reduce the risk of complications?

Answer 1

Answer: In the case of type 2 type diabetes, the blood glucose levels increases and this causes excess of Glucose present in the body. The risk factors include such as:

• Obesity
• Family History
• Gender
• Race
• Lifestyle
• Diseases.

1500 calorie diet is not appropriate as one has to reduce the weight. By reducing it to 1000 calorie diet and with proper exercise weight can be reduced.

The client needs to reduce weight because 29 BMI means the person is obese. Hence weight management is important. Obesity increases the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes. It is important to lose weight. With the Healthy lifestyle and exercise, weight can be managed.

Eliminating the consumption of alcohol, smoking, caffeine, sugar can reduce the risk of diseases. Diet should be focused on fibre rich foods, spinach, broccoli, fish, omega 3 fatty acids etc. Keeps heart and brain healthy.