Nutrition recommendations and principles for people with diabetes mellitus.

A historical perspective of nutrition recommendations is provided in Table 1. Today there is no one "diabetic" or "ADA" diet. The recommended diet can only be defined as a nutrition prescription based on assessment and treatment goals and outcomes. MNT for people with diabetes should be individualized, with consideration given to usual eating habits and other lifestyle factors. Nutrition recommendations are then developed and implemented to meet treatment goals and desired outcomes. Monitoring metabolic parameters, including blood glucose levels, glycated hemoglobin, lipids, blood pressure, body weight, and renal function, if appropriate, as well as quality of life, is crucial to ensure successful outcomes. Furthermore, it is essential that ongoing nutrition self-management education and care be provided for individuals with diabetes.