How a Dietitian Can Help You Manage Diabetes, High Cholesterol, and Other Health Conditions

November marks American Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness about diabetes and promote strategies for prevention and management. One of the most powerful allies in this journey is a registered dietitian—a healthcare professional trained to translate nutrition science into practical, personalized guidance. Whether you're living with diabetes, high cholesterol, or other chronic conditions, a dietitian can help you take control of your health through food.

The Power of Personalized Nutrition

One of the greatest strengths of working with a dietitian is the individualized care they provide. Dietitians take the time to understand your emotional relationship with food and cultural eating habits in combination with your medical condition or potential condition, such as prediabetes.

“When you work with our registered dietitian, your full diet recall, medical history, labs, and personal living situation are all taken into consideration,” explains Alison Weis, registered dietitian, MemorialCare Medical Group. “We create an individualized plan for improving blood sugars that fits your life.”

Their philosophy centers on foods you can enjoy, not just restrictions. Clients are often pleasantly surprised to find their favorite meals still “on the menu.” Through individual and group sessions, a dietitian can help you:

• Learn healthy cooking techniques
• Understand nutritional labels
• Make smart choices when dining out
• Build sustainable habits for long-term success

Why Nutrition Matters in Chronic Disease Management

Chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and high cholesterol are often influenced by lifestyle factors, with diet playing a central role. As of 2025, more than 53 million adults in the U.S.—or 15.8% of the adult population—are living with diabetes, including both diagnosed and undiagnosed cases. Poor eating habits can contribute to insulin resistance, elevated blood lipids, inflammation, and weight gain—all of which increase the risk of complications. On the flip side, a well-balanced diet can help stabilize blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, and support overall metabolic health.

Dietitians are uniquely qualified to help individuals navigate these complexities. They don’t just hand out meal plans—they deliver evidence-based, personalized nutrition therapy that goes beyond food choices. This includes assessing medical history, lab results, lifestyle factors, and health goals to develop targeted strategies for managing conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and more. It’s a comprehensive approach that integrates nutrition into overall health care, tailored to each person’s unique needs.

“Our goal is to help you feel confident—not confused—about your food choices. We work together to build habits that fit your life, so you’re not just following a diet; you’re creating a lifestyle that supports your health long-term.”

- Alison Weis

How Dietitians Help Manage Diabetes

Managing diabetes requires more than just avoiding sugar. It involves understanding how different foods affect blood glucose, insulin response, and energy levels. Dietitians help people with diabetes manage their condition through personalized strategies such as:

• Teaching carbohydrate management: Dietitians guide clients on how to count carbs, choose low-glycemic foods, and balance meals to prevent blood sugar spikes. This approach helps to keep blood glucose levels stable throughout the day.
• Teaching how to meal plan: Instead of one-size-fits-all solutions, dietitians create meal plans tailored to an individual’s lifestyle. They consider medical history, medication, activity level, and even cultural food preferences to design a plan that is not only effective but also enjoyable.
• Supporting weight management: Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly improve insulin sensitivity. Dietitians provide strategies for safe and sustainable weight loss, helping clients manage their diabetes more effectively.
• Monitoring progress: Dietitians regularly track a client’s nutritional status and adjust their meal plans as necessary. This continuous support ensures individuals stay on track with their health goals.

For individuals with prediabetes, dietitians can offer the guidance needed to reverse the condition and prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes altogether. Through targeted lifestyle changes—such as adjusting dietary patterns, increasing physical activity, and managing stress—dietitians can help reduce the risk of progressing to diabetes.

Managing High Cholesterol with a Dietitian's Help

High cholesterol, especially elevated LDL (“bad” cholesterol), is a major risk factor for heart disease. For those with diabetes, this is particularly concerning, as high cholesterol compounds the risks associated with the condition. Dietitians help manage cholesterol by:

• Reducing saturated and trans fats: Dietitians help identify sources of saturated and trans fats in the diet and recommend healthier alternatives, such as olive oil or avocado, which support heart health.
• Increasing fiber intake: Soluble fiber from foods like oats, legumes, and fruits can help lower LDL cholesterol. Dietitians work with clients to incorporate more fiber-rich foods into their meals to boost heart health and control cholesterol levels.
• Encouraging healthy fats: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, have been shown to support heart health. Dietitians ensure these foods are part of a balanced eating plan that addresses both blood sugar and cholesterol goals.
• Balancing overall nutrition: Dietitians help clients find the right balance between managing cholesterol and maintaining a healthy blood sugar level. Their goal is to create meal plans that provide optimal nutrition for overall well-being without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

By improving cholesterol levels, dietitians help reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and support better heart health, especially for those managing diabetes and other chronic conditions.

Beyond Diabetes and Cholesterol: Supporting Whole-Body Health

Dietitians don’t only focus on diabetes and cholesterol. They also play a crucial role in managing other chronic health conditions, such as:

• Hypertension: High blood pressure is another risk factor for heart disease. Dietitians help clients reduce sodium intake and encourage the consumption of potassium-rich foods like leafy greens, bananas, and sweet potatoes.
• Kidney disease: For those with kidney disease, dietitians provide guidance on managing protein, phosphorus, and potassium intake. This helps prevent complications and ensures that clients are getting the right nutrients without overburdening their kidneys.
• Digestive disorders: Dietitians tailor nutrition plans to alleviate symptoms of digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or celiac disease. They work with clients to improve gut health through diet, helping them feel better and manage their condition more effectively.
• Cancer recovery: Dietitians support patients not only during recovery but also in preparing for treatment. Through personalized nutrition strategies, they help individuals strengthen their bodies before therapy begins, to improve tolerance to treatment and outcomes. During and after treatment, dietitians continue to guide patients in maintaining strength, preventing malnutrition, and promoting healing through food.

Dietitians take a comprehensive approach to health, examining the whole person rather than just focusing on one condition. This holistic perspective ensures that all aspects of an individual's health are supported through their nutrition plan.

Dietitians as Part of Your Healthcare Team

At MemorialCare Medical Group, dietitians are not just nutrition experts—they’re integral members of your comprehensive care team. They collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and specialists to ensure your nutrition plan aligns with your overall treatment strategy. This team-based approach is especially valuable for individuals managing multiple conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, where dietary needs may overlap or even conflict.

Additionally, the team works with insurance providers to make nutrition counseling more accessible, often as a preventative care benefit. For those without coverage, discounted cash rates are available, making it easier to prioritize your health without financial strain.

Living with a chronic condition can feel overwhelming, but dietitians offer ongoing support and motivation. They empower you to make informed choices, celebrate small victories, and stay committed to your health goals.

About the Expert

Alison Weis, is a registered dietitian with MemorialCare Medical Group, where she sees patients at MemorialCare Medical Group locations in Long Beach and Fountain Valley. She earned her master’s degree in Nutritional Sciences from California State University, Long Beach and is also a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. Passionate about helping families thrive, Alison enjoys creating nutritious, delicious meals and exploring new recipes. She believes in a holistic approach to wellness, often incorporating exercise and outdoor activities into her lifestyle. Her work focuses on empowering patients to make sustainable dietary changes that support both physical and mental well-being.

During American Diabetes Month, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how nutrition can transform your health—and how a dietitian can guide you every step of the way. Nutrition plays a powerful role in managing chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and high cholesterol. MemorialCare dietitians offer expert support in areas such as weight management, digestive health, and pregnancy nutrition. Talk to your MemorialCare primary care provider about placing a referral to Nutrition Services or call 714-659-5574 to learn more.