Dietary and Nutrition Education: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a significant global public health challenge, affecting millions worldwide and placing immense strain on healthcare systems. This chapter highlights the pivotal role of nutrition and dietary education in T2DM prevention, management, and remission, tracing its evolution from preinsulin strategies to the current framework of evidence-based medical nutrition therapy (MNT). The focus is to empower healthcare professionals, dietitians, nutritionists, and policymakers with actionable insights and strategies to optimize public health nutrition interventions aimed at improving glycemic control and diabetes-related outcomes. Using the Socio-Ecological Model (SEM) as a guiding framework, the chapter delves into multifaceted and context-sensitive approaches for delivering effective nutrition and dietary education. It highlights the potential of emerging technologies, including digital platforms and wearable devices, as scalable solutions for enhancing education and engagement. Furthermore, it advocates for an integrated, comprehensive approach that incorporates personalized nutrition, sustainable dietary practices, and interdisciplinary care to advance prevention, improve management, and achieve remission in T2DM.