### Managing Diabetes: Susan Bilyeu's Journey When Susan Bilyeu was diagnosed with diabetes three years ago, her doctor gave her a choice: lose weight and change her eating habits or take medication for life. Not wanting to rely on drugs, Susan, then 43, decided to overhaul her diet and lose weight. She enlisted the help of a personal nutrition coach, a registered dietitian, to guide her. #### The Role of Dietitians Dietitians provide personalized eating plans based on individual preferences, making it easier for people to stick to their diets. They start by understanding what their clients typically eat and suggest manageable changes. Dietitians also review medical histories to ensure that dietary changes won't interfere with any medications or health conditions. #### Susan's Approach Susan kept a food diary for two weeks to identify areas for improvement. This common practice helps people become more aware of their eating habits and triggers. Under her dietitian's guidance, Susan lost 20 pounds, began exercising regularly, and managed her blood sugar without expensive medications. #### Insurance and Costs While many health insurance policies cover surgeries and treatments for chronic diseases, they often don't cover nutrition counseling. However, more insurers are recognizing its value. Susan was fortunate that her insurance covered the cost of her dietitian visits, which can range from $50 to $125 per hour. #### The Benefits of Nutritional Therapy A report by the National Academy of Sciences' Institute of Medicine highlights the cost-effectiveness of nutritional therapy. For example, dietitians have helped people reduce their cholesterol levels, saving significant amounts on prescription drugs. On a national level, such savings could translate into millions of dollars. #### Finding a Dietitian For reliable nutrition advice, look for a registered dietitian (RD). They have completed rigorous education and training, passed a national exam, and continue their education to stay current. You can find a registered dietitian through your doctor, local hospitals, or the American Dietetic Association's Nutrition Network Referral Service. Susan continues to check in with her dietitian for follow-up guidance, ensuring she stays on track with her health goals.