DIABETES Australia has launched a partnership with the Defeat Diabetes program, to bolster support for individuals living with or at risk of the disease with pharmacists an integral part of the initiative.
The collaboration seeks to empower people to manage their weight and blood glucose levels, potentially leading to the remission of type 2 diabetes, through a low-carb diet.
Diabetes Australia Acting Group CEO Taryn Black said weight loss and improved blood glucose levels and remission of the condition can be "life changing".
"We support options for attempting weight loss including very low energy or low and very low carbohydrate diets, based on individual needs and the advice of their health professionals such as pharmacists," added Black.
In a strategic move to further its research capabilities, Diabetes Australia announced Prof Grant Brinkworth as the inaugural Director of Research.
Brinkworth, a prominent researcher in low-carbohydrate diets for diabetes management, is expected to significantly contribute to the organisation's efforts in supporting diabetes remission strategies.
He underlined the role of pharmacists and told Pharmacy Daily that the profession can promote the importance of lifestyle changes, in addition to pharmacotherapy, in managing blood glucose levels.
"In consultation with their customer's healthcare team, pharmacists can help people explore evidence-based, professionally supported lifestyle programs to help them manage their condition," said Brinkworth.
"They can also assist by encouraging anyone considering a low-carb diet to talk to their GP about the impact diet change could have on medication needs."
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