488 Table 12.5 Training Handout SAMPLE TRAINING AID FOR CONSISTENT CARBOHYDRATE DIET*
What is the Consistent Carbohydrate Diet? A diet where the client has more control over their food choices while trying to maintain a consistent amount of carbohydrate at every meal, every day. Instead of having a specific calorie level, the diet has a specific amount of carbohydrate for each day.
Where are carbohydrates found? Starchy vegetables such as peas, corn, potatoes, squash; dairy products; breads/grains; fruits; sweet desserts.
Why does the facility use a Consistent Carbohydrate Diet? Both the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommend using a carbohydrate counting approach to manage diabetes because it is less restrictive and compliance is improved.
What are the advantages of using a Consistent Carbohydrate Diet?
• Clients with diabetes can include a small amount of a sweet dessert or sweetened beverage as long as it is consumed with the meal.
• Medication can be adjusted based on the amount of carbohydrate consumed.
• Clients have more control over their diet because they can select from a list of food choices that each contains ~15 grams of carbohydrate. If the client refuses to eat vegetables, he/she can select more fruits or low-fat dairy products to keep the carbohydrate content consistent.
How can I help implement a Consistent Carbohydrate Diet?
• Help family members understand why and how it is OK for their loved one to have sweetened foods and beverages.
• Help clients select an appropriate substitute if they refuse a particular food. Use the term Consistent Carbohydrate Diet instead of ADA diet.
* This resource is useful during in-service training of non-foodservice staff.
SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL
Nutrition Fundamentals and Medical Nutrition Therapy