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Patient/Clinician Discussion /FAQ
• How often should I be screened for nutritional deficiencies?
▶ You should see your healthcare team regularly, at least 1–2 per year. In addition, if
you are malnourished or at great risk for becoming malnourished, you should see
your care team more frequently.
• How important is exercise?
▶ Proper diet and exercise go hand in hand, so both are very important! Exercise is
even more important when your BMI is higher than 30.
• Do supplements taste bad?
▶ This is a common myth. There are a variety of supplements that come in many
formats and flavors. If one type of flavor of supplement tastes bad to you, there are
usually a handful of others that you can try until you find what tastes best for you.
• How do I know if I am getting enough vitamins/nutrients in my diet?
▶ Your healthcare team will work with you to create an individualized care plan,
and will conduct regular check-ins to ensure that your nutrition levels are where
they should be. As long as you stick closely to this plan you will receive the
appropriate levels. Talk to you doctor if you are having a hard time sticking to the
individualized care plan.
• Does nutritious food and/or supplementation cost a lot?
▶ No! In fact, it will cost you a lot more in the long run by not taking the right steps
to keep your nutrition in check. There are many healthy and nutritious foods, as
well as supplements, that are affordable.
Additional Resources for Recipes and More
1. www.cdc.gov/diabetes/managing/eat-well.html
2. www.nutrition.gov/topics/diet-and-health-conditions/diabetes
3. www.diabetes.org/healthy-living/recipes-nutrition/understanding-carbs/
carb-counting-and-diabetes
4. www.diabetesfoodhub.org
5. www.eatright.org/health/diseases-and-conditions/diabetes
