Dietary advice is fundamental to the management of type 2 diabetes, and there is strong evidence of its efficacy for improving glycaemic control, weight management and reducing cardiovascular risk. Current guidelines recommend delivery of dietary advice as part of multi-component structured education programmes, but only a minority attend these sessions. Traditionally, it is recommended that dietary advice is delivered by registered dietitians, but access is limited in many areas and there is now general recognition that other health professionals have a role in delivering dietary advice, ideally guided by registered dietitians.

The majority of people with type 2 diabetes in the Thames Valley receive diabetes education and support within the primary care setting, and this includes dietary advice. However, most health professionals receive little education in delivering dietary advice and feel inadequately trained to support people with lifestyle change.

In addition, there is confusion about appropriate dietary interventions for people with Type 2 Diabetes, and controversies remain about topics such as optimal carbohydrate intake and the role of interventions such as total diet replacement and intermittent fasting.

This resource is a designed as a practical guide to support the delivery of consistent, evidence-based dietary advice to people with type 2 diabetes by health professionals working in primary care.

Originally published in September 2019, this resource has been re-badged for South East Clinical Delivery and Networks.

Published: January 2021