The diabetes standards of care for 2025 have arrived, and I am elated to witness updates in areas that can be nurtured with the guidance of a skilled registered dietitian and a Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist.

Highlights include:

Continuous Glucose Monitor Use:

An expanded embrace of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for those with non-insulin dependent Type 2 diabetes. These remarkable devices serve as invaluable allies in lowering blood sugar levels, illuminating self-care behaviors that foster positive trends, and empowering users in their dietary choices. The essence lies in the correct interpretation of the data. Wearers must gain a deeper understanding of CGM usage in this context, with diabetes educators ready to assist in crafting intentional decision trees for success.

GLP-1 Agonists Amplified:

The benefits of GLP-1 medications extend beyond mere weight management: I am thrilled by emerging research indicating that GLP-1 agonists may reduce the risks of heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure. The prospect of these medications lowering the risk of chronic kidney disease progression fills me with excitement as we continue to unveil the positive health outcomes associated with GLP-1 agonists—a realm I am eager to explore as a weight management dietitian.

All are welcomed to Diabetes Self-Management Education:

Diabetes Self-Management Education is now deemed advisable for all individuals with diabetes, rather than merely encouraged for those diagnosed. I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of quality education programs for those living with diabetes, as such education empowers both adults and children to master their self-care. If you aren’t familiar with what this type of instruction entails, comprehensive programs encompass all aspects of blood sugar management: testing, medication oversight, physical activity, stress management, and nutrition. Here at North Texas Nutrition Associates, we have designed an extensive 8-week class series featuring the essential components of diabetes education, led by a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. Feel free to reach out for details on class schedules at our main office.

Diabetes Prevention and Screening:

The Standards of Care Summary introduces numerous changes, emphasizing proper screening and prevention strategies for pre-diabetes and diabetes across all types. It also highlights lesser-known areas linked to the disease, such as sexual dysfunction in both genders, sleep patterns, and essential care for eyes, feet, and dental health.

Pregnancy Nutrition:

Lastly, I cherish the consolidated guidance provided to practitioners regarding dietary patterns for women experiencing diabetes during pregnancy, alongside an emphasis on the advantages of telehealth visits to support women during this pivotal stage. We offer comprehensive meal planning services for women facing blood sugar challenges in pregnancy.

As I embark on my fifteenth year as a Certified Diabetes Education & Care Specialist, I reflect on the passion that ignited my journey into this meaningful field. Years ago, I was fueled by the satisfaction on the faces of families and people I worked with who felt heard, understood and comforted by learning more about managing their own health at the conclusion of our visits. Those families and patients became empowered. That feeling never gets old!

Ready to start your diabetes education journey? Message us.