Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What is the best advice for a woman with diabetes who gained weight despite eliminating fried foods?

1. Increase exercise to 300 minutes per week to burn fat

2. Eliminate bananas from the diet due to calorie density

3. Switch from fruit juice to water to avoid excess calories

4. Add fried foods back to the diet to increase metabolism

The correct answer is: Switch from fruit juice to water to avoid excess calories

Switching from fruit juice to water is a practical and beneficial suggestion for a woman with diabetes who is struggling with weight management. Fruit juices, even those that are 100% fruit, can be high in sugars and calories while lacking the fiber found in whole fruits. This high calorie density can contribute to weight gain and make it more challenging to manage blood sugar levels. By replacing fruit juice with water, the individual can effectively reduce caloric intake. Water has no calories and can help with hydration, which is important for overall health and can support weight loss efforts. Additionally, staying well-hydrated can aid in feeling satiated, potentially leading to reduced hunger and lower food intake overall. In contrast, increasing exercise to a significant amount, while beneficial for health, may not address daily caloric intake directly if diet is not adequately managed. Eliminating bananas solely due to their calorie content disregards their nutritional benefits, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Adding fried foods back into the diet contradicts the goal of weight loss and can exacerbate health issues associated with diabetes.