Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What lifestyle modification is often recommended for type 2 diabetes management in overweight patients?

1. Continuous high-intensity exercise without dietary changes

2. Reduction of carbohydrate intake without monitoring blood glucose

3. Structured weight loss programs in conjunction with physical activity

4. Medical therapy without lifestyle intervention

The correct answer is: Structured weight loss programs in conjunction with physical activity

The recommended lifestyle modification for type 2 diabetes management in overweight patients is structured weight loss programs in conjunction with physical activity. This approach is essential because significant weight loss can lead to improved insulin sensitivity, better glycemic control, and decreased risk of complications associated with diabetes. Structured weight loss programs typically include dietary changes tailored to reduce calorie intake and improve nutritional quality, along with regular physical activity to enhance overall health and facilitate weight reduction. Combining these elements addresses both the dietary and activity aspects necessary for effective diabetes management. In contrast, focusing solely on high-intensity exercise without accompanying dietary modifications may not yield the desired results, especially if calorie intake remains high. Similarly, reducing carbohydrate intake without actively monitoring blood glucose can lead to unaddressed fluctuations in blood sugar levels, which is critical in diabetes care. Lastly, relying solely on medical therapy without integrating lifestyle interventions is not in line with best practices for diabetes management, as such an approach may not provide the comprehensive care needed for optimal health outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes.