Hi there,
The charity I run “X-PERT Health” provides X-PERT prevention, diabetes and insulin programmes to the NHS where people can access them (if they are available in their area).
I undertake regular literature reviews and critically appraise the research papers. The X-PERT Programmes have been updated with this evidence base.
I understand healthcare professional concerns, especially as the new Eatwell Guide still advocates a low fat, high carb diet for all. We therefore have to accept that there will be a transition period. It’s challenging times at the moment and, as my very wise father has said, “don’t let excellence get in the way of good”! The transition period provides time for educators to read and understand the evidence.
I was challenged by dietitians at a study day last autumn but I appreciate it is difficult for dietitians because they have been trained in a certain way. I too was trained to promote a low fat, high carb diet. However, our professional code of conduct states that we need to deliver treatments in the best interests of service users; keep skills and knowledge up-to-date; provide information necessary to make informed decisions; engage in evidence-based practice & evaluate practice; use research to determine appropriate actions; critically evaluate research in order to inform practice. This means that sometimes we need to work outside recommendations as the research to practice gap is around 17 years.
On a positive note, the Diabetes UK 2011 dietary guidelines that state:
- “Nutrition management has shifted from a prescriptive one-size fits all approach to a person-centred approach”.
- “It is unclear what ideal proportion of macronutrients to recommend for optimal glycaemic control”.
- “In terms of dietary strategies for weight loss, encouraging the individual to adopt their diet of choice may well improve outcomes. It is the degree of adherence that will predict outcomes rather than type of dietary strategy. It is intuitive that a diet an individual enjoys and finds acceptable is more likely to succeed”.
This is why the updated programmes provide sample days and information for a low fat, Mediterranean, low carb, intermittent fasting and 500 calorie deficit dietary approaches. The X-PERT Programmes continue to be based on the empowerment philosophy where individuals self-assess their diet, make informed decisions and set goals to make any changes they desire and we know
one size doesn’t fit all. We do know that the LCHD dietary approach works in those individuals who are motivated and for those who get support (from family and/or healthcare professionals). However, if support and education is not available, the approach is less likely to be sustainable.
As you may be aware, I am also a founding member along with another 11 medics and researchers of a new charity Public Health Collaboration
https://phcuk.org/ that will raise awareness of the scientific evidence with the objective of revising the UK dietary guidelines. We will produce quarterly reports and the first conference is in Birmingham on Saturday 11th June.
We just need to educate and support those who are trapped in traditional wisdom. It will happen but it will take time………..
I hope this helps? Best wishes, Trudi
