More and more Americans today are choosing to manage their medical conditions through diet and lifestyle changes. Physicians and other health-care providers often recommend adding or subtracting certain foods to the diet as part of the total treatment plan. Some conditions that can be managed by dietary changes include diabetes, heart disease, renal disease and obesity. Finding a qualified health-care frofessional to guide the patient is an important part of the process.
Diet Therapy
The type of diet therapy provided will vary depending on the provider and the patient's condition. Typically, a physician or dietitian is qualified to help with dietary modifications, but in some cases, patients will seek the help of a naturopath or other holistic provider. Dietary recommendations often come along with a diagnosis and a sense of urgency. Some conditions warrant dietary changes.
Diabetes
Diabetics are physiologically sensitive to carbohydrates and it is often imperative that modifications are made to the diet. A person with type 2 diabetes, or adult onset diabetes, will likely be advised to cut added sugars from the diet. Depending on the severity or progression of the condition, some diabetic persons may also be asked to keep a food journal, along with blood sugar readings in order to determine trends in diet and coresponding blood sugar levels. The goal in diabetes management is usually to maintain a stable sugar level throughout the day, which can be done by following the diabetic exchange diet created by the American Diabetes Association.
Heart Disease
Many conditions come under the umbrella term, "heart disease." In general however, a person diagnosed with heart disease will want to watch salt intake, fats and sugars. According to the American Heart Association, an emphasis should be placed on consuming more polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, and less saturated or trans fats. A physician or dietitian can assist in planning a heart-healthy diet.
Obesity
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 34 percent of Americans are obese. This number is staggering. Obesity is related to the development of other health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Diet therapy is available to assist overweight persons to learn to choose better foods, track food intake and reduce portions.
Renal Disease
Treatment for renal disease will vary depending on the stage of disease, whether the patient is undergoing dialysis, and whether it is acute or chonic renal disease. In renal disease, it is very important that the patient is monitored for sodium, potassium, and other electrolyte levels. A meal plan will be created based on the results of electrolyte monitoring and will either increase or decrease protein consumption. As with many other conditions, it is best that a trained professional, such as a physician or dietitian, assist in diet planning.
References
- American Diabetes Association: Food and Fitness
- American Heart Association: Fats
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- "Nutrition Therapy and Pathophysiology"; Marcia Nelms; 2007
