Nutrition and Diet Flashcards

What is the recommended daily sodium intake for adults with diabetes who also have hypertension?

Answer: Less than 1,500 mg

The ADA recommends limiting sodium to less than 1,500 mg per day for people with diabetes and hypertension to protect cardiovascular health.

Which meal timing strategy is specifically supported by research to improve insulin sensitivity?

Answer: Front-loading calories earlier in the day

Research shows that eating more calories earlier in the day aligns with natural circadian insulin rhythms and improves overall blood glucose control.

Which fruit has the HIGHEST glycemic index and should be consumed cautiously by people with diabetes?

Answer: Watermelon

Watermelon has a high glycemic index of approximately 76, meaning it raises blood glucose more rapidly than most other fruits.

Resistant starch, found in cooled cooked potatoes and rice, benefits people with diabetes because it:

Answer: Acts like dietary fiber and slows glucose release

Resistant starch resists digestion in the small intestine, acting like fiber to slow glucose absorption and improve gut health.

Which dietary pattern has been shown to put Type 2 diabetes into remission in some patients?

Answer: Very low calorie diet (800 kcal/day)

Studies like the DiRECT trial demonstrated that a very low calorie diet of approximately 800 kcal/day can achieve diabetes remission through significant weight loss.

Chromium is a trace mineral that may benefit people with Type 2 diabetes because it:

Answer: Enhances insulin's action at the cellular level

Chromium is a cofactor for insulin, helping it bind to receptors more effectively and improving glucose uptake by cells.

A patient with diabetes asks about using agave nectar as a healthier sweetener. The BEST response is:

Answer: Agave is high in fructose and can worsen liver insulin resistance

Agave nectar is approximately 70-90% fructose, which, despite its low GI, can increase liver fat and worsen insulin resistance over time.