Medical Nutrition Therapy for Diabetes: What You Must Know

Medical Nutrition Therapy for Diabetes: What You Must Know

By Rajeshwaari Kalla | July 16, 2025 | Images: Canva

What is MNT?

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MNT stands for Medical Nutrition Therapy. It aids in managing and controlling diabetes through lifestyle changes and nutrition 

What does it take care of?

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MNT takes into account the HbA1c levels, the blood pressure, as well as the cholesterol, to keep the individual healthy

Individualise MNT

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MNT does not follow a one-size-fits-all approach. It takes into account the individual’s lifestyle and eating habits to form the most efficient plan

Timely Snacks 

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The meals that a person with diabetes mellitus takes must be at regular intervals, especially for non-insulin-dependent patients

Maintain the BMI

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With a combination of nutritious food and timed meals, a goal of achieving a BMI in the normal range must be made

Types of diet

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For the treatment of diabetes, one must follow either a low-calorie weight-reducing diet or a weight-maintenance diet, depending on personal needs

Restrict fat intake

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If weight loss is one of the primary  goals, fat restriction is necessary. Monounsaturated fats must be  preferred, that help in reducing  the ‘bad’ cholesterol

Increase fibre

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A meal rich in dietary fibre, which is a non-starch polysaccharide, will have a significantly lower glycemic index

Say no to alcohol

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Alcohol not only adds extra calories, but it can also have deleterious effects when taken by patients on oral hypoglycaemic drugs like metformin

Exercise exercise exercise!

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The importance of exercise cannot be stressed enough. It aids in improving insulin sensitivity, reduces glucose  levels, and has cardiovascular as  well as psychological benefits

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