IntroductionDiabetes is a metabolic disease defined by a high concentration of glucose in the blood, also known as hyperglycemia (Mertig, 2012). Hyperglycemia is the result of a problem with insulin release and/or a problem with insulin action. In other words, a diabetic person produces little or no insulin (type 1 diabetes) or does not have the ability to effectively use the insulin produced (type 2 diabetes) (Mertig, 2012). Diabetes is a growing epidemic in the United States. In an effort to better manage and reduce the incidence of diabetes, researchers spend a considerable amount of time each year trying to better understand the disease (Philis-Tsimikas and Decker, 2011). After all, the long-term complications of uncontrolled diabetes (blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, amputations, etc.) can be devastating and must be prevented and/or controlled (Mertig, 2012). People living with diabetes need to integrate nutritional management, physical activity, medication adherence, appropriate blood sugar monitoring, self-education, and most importantly, actively participate in their own diabetes care. According to Inzucchi et al., a patient-centered approach is best and means "providing care that respects and responds to the preferences, needs, and values ​​of each patient and ensuring that the patient's values ​​guide all clinical decisions." One approach that has been shown to be effective in diabetes management is the Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) approach. DSME is a “patient-centered” approach that actively involves the client in all aspects of their diabetes care and provides the tools needed to encourage self-directed growth. A big part of the DSME approach is the client's diet, ...... middle of paper ...... correctly in relation to meals and in combination with other therapies, will maintain strict control of blood sugar. High competence is demonstrated by the client's ability to verbally and visually demonstrate these skills and maintain the behavior change for six months or more with good quality of life. That said, diabetes is a lifelong disease that requires lifelong management. Even the most compliant and competent client should be encouraged to follow up regularly to ensure the best diabetes outcomes. ConclusionDiabetes is a complex disease and can be very overwhelming for the person living with the disease. Diet plays a major role in helping the client manage their diabetes. Motivating, encouraging and empowering the client to be actively involved in their own diabetes care has been shown to be effective in all aspects of diabetes management..