Managing Diabetes Through Nutrition: What Really Works (and What Doesn’t)

If you’ve been recently diagnosed with diabetes or you’re struggling to manage your blood sugar, you’ve probably seen endless advice online — from “cut all carbs” to “drink this miracle smoothie.” But not everything you read is true. Working with a registered dietitian helps you separate facts from fads and build a plan that actually works.

At AP Nutrition, we provide telehealth nutrition counseling across Washington and Oregon — making it easier than ever to get expert help from the comfort of home. And the best part? For most people, nutrition counseling for diabetes is fully covered by insurance.

What Really Works

1. Balanced Carbohydrates

Carbs aren’t the enemy — the type of carb matters. Whole grains, fruits, beans, and vegetables provide fiber that slows digestion and helps steady blood sugar. A dietitian can teach you how to pair these carbs with protein or healthy fats for smoother glucose control.

2. Consistent Meal Timing

Going long periods without eating can lead to large spikes and drops in blood sugar. Building a regular meal rhythm keeps energy levels stable and medications working properly.

3. Portion Awareness

Learning what a balanced plate looks like (without eliminating favorite foods) helps you meet nutrition needs and manage your glucose effectively.

4. Individualized Plans

There’s no “one” diabetes diet. A registered dietitian tailors recommendations based on your medications, activity level, lab results, and personal preferences — helping you find an approach that fits your life, not the other way around.

What Doesn’t Work

• Eliminating all carbs — leads to fatigue, nutrient gaps, and can affect blood sugar stability.

• “Detox” diets or juice cleanses — cause dangerous blood sugar swings and have no evidence behind them.

• Relying solely on supplements — supplements can’t replace healthy eating patterns or medical nutrition therapy.

• Copying generic meal plans online — what works for one person’s blood sugar won’t always work for another.

Telehealth Nutrition Counseling for Diabetes

All AP Nutrition sessions are delivered virtually through secure telehealth — so you can meet with a dietitian from anywhere in Washington or Oregon. You’ll get real-time guidance, meal ideas, and accountability without the commute.

We are in-network with:

• UnitedHealthcare

• Premera Blue Cross

• Regence Blue Shield

• Aetna

• Cigna

• First Choice Health

• Medicare

• Medicaid

Most of these plans fully cover diabetes nutrition counseling as part of preventive care.

Take Charge of Your Health

Managing diabetes doesn’t mean giving up the foods you love — it means learning how to balance them. With expert guidance, you can improve energy, lower A1C, and feel confident in your food choices.

👉 Book a telehealth appointment today and start building a plan that works for you.

✍️ Author

Written by Alie Purcell, MS, RD — Registered Dietitian and founder of AP Nutrition. Alie provides telehealth nutrition counseling across Washington and Oregon and is in-network with major insurance providers including UnitedHealthcare, Premera, Regence, Aetna, Cigna, Medicare, and Medicaid. She specializes in diabetes management, heart health, digestive nutrition, and sustainable weight management.