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Goodbye BMI? Why Body Composition Is Gaining Ground in Clinics
The rise of incretin-based therapies for obesity care, like Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide), has brought renewed attention to the risk of muscle atrophy that can accompany rapid weight loss. To better assess changes in skeletal muscle mass, clinicians are turning to body composition assessment tools to track progress over time. However, the ability to measure, interpret, and communicate changes in body composition is a skill most clinicians haven’t been formally trained in, leaving many feeling like it’s not a tool they can confidently use. I want to push back against that assumption and offer some basic principles to help…
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What Is Type 5 Diabetes? Exploring the Newest Diagnostic Category
If you’ve seen a new diabetes diagnosis category circulating in medical circles and found yourself confused, thinking, “I don’t remember learning about that type in medical, nursing, or dietetics school,” don’t worry. It’s not necessarily a brand-new form of diabetes, but rather a reclassification of an existing phenotype, now described with clearer criteria and greater focus on its underlying causes. Malnutrition-related diabetes, now referred to as Type 5 Diabetes, was recently recognized by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). Let’s explore what this new classification means and how it may impact your practice. What is Type 5 Diabetes? Type 5 diabetes…
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DCES Leadership in the Future of Wearable Health Technology
In a recent issue of Healthcare150, a newsletter spotlighting key healthcare trends, I was struck by the projected growth of wearable devices—from $14.5 billion in 2020 to $76.1 billion by 2029. In my nutrition practice, I see just how common sleep, activity, and glucose trackers have become. This kind of growth points to a broader shift, that digital health tools are becoming deeply integrated into mainstream self care. Wearables are now central to both cost-efficiency efforts in healthcare and the growing demand for a highly personalized approach. Here are a few standout trends—and the exciting opportunities I see for diabetes…
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GLP-1 Therapy Part 4: Navigating the Decision to Discontinue
I recently had the pleasure of speaking at the Colorado Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Annual Conference on the topic of nutrition strategies for effective GLP-1 use in obesity treatment. This premier event, dedicated to supporting nutrition and dietetics professionals in Colorado, offered a valuable opportunity to share updated evidence on GLP-1 therapies, while also debunking common myths to promote informed and unbiased nutrition counseling. In this four-part series, I’m excited to share my key recommendations to help support your practice. In Part 4, we’ll discuss some of the key questions to consider when deciding whether to discontinue therapy. New…
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GLP-1 Therapy Part 3: Strategies for Successful Weight Loss
I recently had the pleasure of speaking at the Colorado Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Annual Conference on the topic of nutrition strategies for effective GLP-1 use in obesity treatment. This premier event, dedicated to supporting nutrition and dietetics professionals in Colorado, offered a valuable opportunity to share updated evidence on GLP-1 therapies, while also debunking common myths to promote informed and unbiased nutrition counseling. In this four-part series, I’m excited to share my key recommendations to help support your practice. In Part 3, we’ll discuss strategies for successful weight loss while on GLP-1 therapy, as well as the transition…
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GLP-1 Therapy Part 2: Preventing and Managing Side Effects
I recently had the pleasure of presenting at the Colorado Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Annual Conference on the topic of nutrition strategies for effective GLP-1 use in obesity treatment. This premier event, dedicated to supporting nutrition and dietetics professionals in Colorado, offered a valuable opportunity to share updated evidence on GLP-1 therapies, while also debunking common myths to promote informed and unbiased nutrition counseling. In this four-part series, I’m excited to share my key recommendations to help support your practice. In Part 2, we’ll discuss strategies for managing and preventing medication-related side effects New to this series? Start with…
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GLP-1 Therapy Part 1: Setting Realistic Weight Loss Expectations
I recently had the pleasure of speaking at the Colorado Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Annual Conference on the topic of nutrition strategies for effective GLP-1 use in obesity treatment. This premier event, dedicated to supporting nutrition and dietetics professionals in Colorado, offered a valuable opportunity to share updated evidence on GLP-1 therapies, while also debunking common myths to promote informed and unbiased nutrition counseling. In this four-part series, I’m excited to share my key recommendations to help support your practice. In Part 1, we’ll explore key considerations for identifying appropriate GLP-1 candidates and highlight the importance of setting realistic…
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Dietitian Abroad: Navigating Digital Nomad Life in Chile
It has been a lifelong dream—or at least a recent professional goal—to work both remotely and abroad. The trendy term for this is digital nomad, though I’m not sure I’ve quite reached that status yet. My spouse has had a flexible position for some time, but given my background in healthcare—primarily in clinic and hospital settings—this dream always felt out of reach. I never thought it could become a reality for me, but I just spent five weeks living and working abroad in Viña del Mar, Chile! Here are a few things I learned along the way—and what I might…
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Book Review: Saturated Facts by Dr. Idz – A Deep Dive into Nutrition Myths
This may come as a surprise—but I’m not much of a book reader, at least not when it comes to novels. After working through 2-3 peer-reviewed articles, reading daily nutrition briefings, sorting through countless emails, and keeping up with the news, my eyes need a break. More often than not, I turn to podcasts instead. However, I genuinely enjoyed Dr. Idz’s new book, Saturated Facts. His casual and frank approach to busting diet and nutrition myths, along with his breakdown of trending nutrition research, made for an enjoyable and informative read—something I actually looked forward to at the end of…
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Do Food Warning Labels Really Work?
On a recent trip abroad, I couldn’t help but notice the abundance of food warning labels on items at the local mini-mart. Bold, bright labels reading “Danger: High Fat” or “Excess Sugar” were stamped across the front of snack packaging. I wasn’t surprised—I knew full well that the bag of chips I grabbed wasn’t the healthiest choice, but I really wanted to try them. When in Rome! Still, it made me wonder—do food warning labels actually deter consumers? Do they influence purchasing behavior, or do people, like me, simply ignore them when cravings strike? Let’s explore when and why food…
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Obesity Redefined: A Bold New Approach to Diagnosis
A recent publication in The Lancet: Diabetes & Endocrinology is prompting the medical community to rethink how obesity is screened and diagnosed. Endorsed by over 75 organizations worldwide, including scientific societies and patient advocacy groups, this consensus calls for a major overhaul of the language, classification, and diagnostic criteria used to address excess adiposity and its impact on the body. Interestingly, the commission not only includes international experts from diverse medical specialties and regions but also individuals with lived experience of obesity. Together, they aim to define ‘clinical obesity’ and establish objective criteria for its diagnosis. Let’s dive into their…
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2025 ADA Standards of Care: 4 Key Changes You Shouldn’t Miss
The start of a new year means one thing in diabetes care and education—new Standards of Care! While the guidelines continue to grow in size and detail, much like a thick phone book, their annual updates are incredibly important for shaping high-quality care for people living with diabetes. Here are four key updates I’m particularly excited to see this year. What are the Standards of Care? The ADA Standards of Care are widely recognized as the gold standard for evidence-based guidelines in diagnosing and managing diabetes and prediabetes. Grounded in the latest scientific research and clinical trials, these guidelines provide…
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Blood Sugar Supplements: Backed by Science or Driven by Hype?
The start of a new year often brings an influx of private practice clients eager to tackle their health goals, and one of the most common topics of conversation is the potential benefits of supplements for glucose control. Many people hope that supplements might provide the extra boost they need to achieve success, especially when the prospect of overhauling their entire diet and lifestyle feels overwhelming. I frequently find myself addressing questions about which supplements, if any, are truly effective for managing blood sugar. Adding to the confusion is the sheer size of the global wellness industry, valued at an…
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Embracing JOMO: Finding Peace in Professional Life
The article discusses the contrast between FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) and JOMO (Joy of Missing Out). It emphasizes the benefits of adopting a JOMO mindset, such as reduced stress, improved focus, and fulfillment, encouraging reflection on personal values and prioritizing intentional choices.
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The Value of Clinical Mentorship
Have you ever wondered what it might be like to have a clinical mentor? Someone you could message for support in a pinch, whether you’re feeling stuck or just need a second opinion? I know in my own professional journey, there were countless moments where I wished for that kind of guidance. As the sole dietitian—and later, the only diabetes care and education specialist—on staff, I often found myself full of questions with no one to turn to for immediate answers. Those experiences taught me just how valuable it is to have someone in your corner who’s been there before,…
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Entrepreneurship in Diabetes Care and Education
As I wrap up my first year as Chair and Founder of the ADCES Connect Entrepreneurship Community of Interest, I am deeply inspired by the creativity and innovation of my peers. What started as a simple desire to bring like-minded professionals together—those working outside traditional settings in diabetes care and education—has transformed into a year of professional growth, enriching networking opportunities, and the empowering realization that running a successful consultancy is possible. Join me as I share insights and reflect on the invaluable wisdom offered by seasoned DCES entrepreneurs. The Launch of the Entrepreneurship COI The Association of Diabetes Care…
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ADCES23: A Mecca for Diabetes Care & Education
The Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (ADCES) serves as the professional practice organization representing nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, advanced practice providers, and community health advocates working in diabetes care and education. The annual ADCES23 conference brings together leaders in the field to disseminate updates in clinical care and technologies. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to network. I’ve included some of the highlights from this years conference. I am already looking forward to ADCES24 in New Orleans! Professional Sessions The professional sessions are an opportunity to hear from experts in the field on original research and best practices in diabetes care and…
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Your Guide to Diabetes Supplies: Glucometers
Glucometers are one of the most commonly prescribed diabetes supplies. Understanding how to use a glucometer and interpreting the results accurately is essential for effective diabetes management. By using a glucometer, people with diabetes can track their blood sugar levels and adjust their diet and medication regimen accordingly. This article covers the functionality of a glucometer, instructions for use, and tips for troubleshooting common issues with glucometers. What is a Glucometer? A glucometer measures blood glucose levels using a small blood sample obtained by pricking a finger with a lancet. Results are displayed within seconds on the meter’s screen, allowing…
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Product Review: Dexcom G7
After what felt like an eternity, I finally got my hands on the long-awaited Dexcom G7. FDA approved in December and available in retail pharmacies mid-February, Dexcom G7 promised to be a major upgrade from its predecessor. So is it worth the hype? Read on to get my take on the Dexcom G7 continuous glucose monitoring system. Dexcom G6 vs G7 I should disclaimer this product review by saying that I do not live with diabetes. I write from the perspective of someone that has relatively unremarkable glycemic activity. I don’t depend on CGM to manage my health. However, I…
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Product Review: Freestyle Libre 3
I finally got my hands on the long-awaited Freestyle Libre 3 continuous glucose monitoring system. FDA-approved in May, sensor kits are finally making their way through the pharmacy and DME supply chain. While there are certainly some kinks yet to be smoothed, the system is an overall improvement from Libre 2. Libre 2 vs Libre 3 Wearers of Freestyle Libre 3 will notice four key differences from the Libre 2, including sensor size, smartphone connectivity, sensory applicator, and over accuracy. Size The Libre 3 sensor is notably smaller, lighter and much more flexible when positioned on the back of the…
