Rationale of the Week | How much do you know about Coach Bev?
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on How Well Do You Know Coach Bev? 33% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question
Question: Which early job taught Coach Beverly the value of loving your work and providing excellent service?
Answer Choices:
- Working as a monitor technician at a community hospital.
- Volunteering at a convalescent hospital after school.
- Showing up at Ying’s Kitchen Chinese Food Restaurant.
- Babysitting a family of six kids during the summer.
Getting to the Best Answer
Answer 1 is incorrect. 22% chose this answer, “Working as a monitor technician at a community hospital.” Beverly worked as a monitor tech and nurses aide at a community hospital while attending nursing school. These experiences taught her about navigating medical terminology and hospital systems.
Answer 2 is incorrect. 25% of you chose this answer, “Volunteering at a convalescent hospital after school.” Coach Bev did lead Bingo games and play guitar at a convalesent home after school. She loved connecting with older adults and hearing their stories.
Answer 3 is correct. About 33% of respondents chose this, “Showing up at Ying’s Kitchen Chinese Food Restaurant.” This is the best answer. Her 8 years at Ying’s Kitchen taught her about hard work, attention to detail, and loving what you do.
Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 18% chose this answer, “Babysitting a family of six kids during the summer.” Watching 6 kids over the summer helped her recognize that being a parent has lots of perks, but she wasn’t ready.
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
Want to learn more about this question?
Read our Blog about Coach Bev’s time at Ying’s Kitchen!
All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information
Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post weekly Blog Bytes that are informative and FREE! Every week we post one exam practice Question of the Week and Rationale of the Week. Sign up below!
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The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
Rationale of the Week | Decoding AGP Report – Test Your Knowledge!
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on Decoding AGP Report-Test Your Knowledge. 49% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question
Question: AJ asks you why their blood glucose levels are “all over the place”. When you look at the AGP, you notice the coefficient of variation is 26%. What is the best response?
Answer Choices:
- Even though your coefficient of variation is above target, we can work to bring that down.
- It seems like you are making a big effort keep your glucose in target range.
- Given your glucose fluctuations, we may need to intensify your medication regimen.
- With some small changes in lifestyle activities, I am sure you can make improvements.
Getting to the Best Answer
Answer 1 is incorrect. 19% chose this answer, “Even though your coefficient of variation is above target, we can work to bring that down.” According to ADA Standards, the goal for glucose variability (or coefficient of variation) is less than 36%. AJ has a coefficient of variation of 26%, which is significantly below the target. This is a wonderful opportunity to recognize AJ’s self-management efforts.
Answer 2 is correct. 49% of you chose this answer, “It seems like you are making a big effort keep your glucose in target range.” YES, this is the BEST Answer. AJ has a coefficient of variation of 26%. That is 10% below the target of 36%. This is a wonderful opportunity to recognize AJ’s self-management efforts.
Answer 3 is incorrect. About 13% of respondents chose this, “Given your glucose fluctuations, we may need to intensify your medication regimen.” According to ADA Standards, the goal for glucose variability (or coefficient of variation) is less than 36%. AJ has a coefficient of variation of 26%, which is significantly below the target. This is a wonderful opportunity to recognize AJ’s self-management efforts.
Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 17% chose this answer, “With some small changes in lifestyle activities, I am sure you can make improvements.” According to ADA Standards, the goal for glucose variability (or coefficient of variation) is less than 36%. AJ has a coefficient of variation of 26%, which is significantly below the target. This is a wonderful opportunity to recognize AJ’s self-management efforts.
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
There’s Still Time! 🕒
Join us today for Part 2 of Tech Data Toolkit!
*Don’t worry if you missed the first session. All of our webinars are recorded and ready for OnDemand Viewing!
Dr. Diana Isaacs speaks live today @ 11:30am PST today!
Dr. Isaacs has a special knack for breaking down the essential elements of the Ambulatory Glucose Profile (AGP) report to provide participants with a clear road map for data interpretation. She includes many sample practice cases utilizing CGM data for various types of people with diabetes including type 2 and people with type 1 not on pumps.
Topics include:
- Review CGM key metrics and individualize time in-range goals
- Learn how to recognize patterns with the AGP report efficiently
- Utilize the AGP report as a discussion guide when meeting with a person with diabetes
- Fresh approach to lifestyle and medication adjustments based on CGM data.
All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information
Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post weekly Blog Bytes that are informative and FREE! Every week we post one exam practice Question of the Week and Rationale of the Week. Sign up below!
Recent Blog Bytes
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
Rationale of the Week | Best technique to assess Protective Sensation in feet?
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on Best technique to assess Protective Sensation in feet? 44% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below:
Question: Best technique to assess Protective Sensation in feet? Which of the following best describes the proper technique for using a 10-gram monofilament to assess protective sensation in a person with diabetes?
Answer Choices:
- Press the monofilament firmly against the skin until it bows for at least 2 seconds, then ask if the person if they feel pressure.
- Stroke the monofilament across the skin surface to assess for light touch sensation.
- Apply the monofilament to the dorsal surface on random sites without informing the individual when contact is made.
- Press the monofilament until it bends into a “C” shape at selected sites, holding for about 1 second before lifting.
Getting to the Best Answer
Answer 1 is incorrect. 18% chose this answer, “Press the monofilament firmly against the skin until it bows for at least 2 seconds, then ask if the person if they feel pressure.” This answer is tempting. You only need to apply the monofilament for one second and you don’t want to ask the person if they feel pressure when you are bending the monofilament into a C-shape on the plantar surface of four sites (as noted in the image below) . This could lead to them simply saying “yes” when you ask if “they feel it”.
Answer 2 is incorrect. 15% of you chose this answer, “Stroke the monofilament across the skin surface to assess for light touch sensation.” When using the monofilament, you only need to apply the monofilament for one second by bending it into a C-shape on the plantar surface of their feet on the four sites (as noted in the image below) to evaluate for sensation. This evaluation does not include stroking the monofilament.
Answer 3 is incorrect. About 22% of respondents chose this, “Apply the monofilament to the dorsal surface on random sites without informing the individual when contact is made.” You need to apply the monofilament for one second by bending it into a C-shape on the plantar surface of their feet on the four sites (as noted in the image below) to evaluate for sensation.
Finally, Answer 4 is correct. 44% chose this answer, “Press the monofilament until it bends into a “C” shape at selected sites, holding for about 1 second before lifting.” Yes, GREAT JOB. Simply apply the monofilament for one second to the sites on the image below, going above or below calluses. Ask the person to close their eyes and say yes when they feel the pressure as you bend the monofilament into a C-shape on the four plantar surfaces sites (as noted in the image below). If they can’t feel on one or more touch points, this is a sign they have “loss of protective sensation” and are at increased risk of foot injury.
For more information on Lower Extremities – we have some great resources.
Free Assessing Lower Extremity Handout
Free Webinar: 3 Steps to DeFeet Amputations
Register for our Level 2 – Lower Extremity Assessment Course- Earn 1.5 CEs
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
Older Individuals are at Higher Risk of Foot Injury
Join us live on May 13th for our
Older Adults & Diabetes
This course is included in: Level 2 – Standards of Care. Purchase this course individually for $29 or enroll in the entire bundle and save 45% (discount already applied).
We are living longer & more people are getting diabetes. The American Diabetes Association has updated the Older Adults Standards, with special attention to considering the reduction of medication & insulin therapy intensity. The older population has unique issues & special needs that require consideration as we provide diabetes self-management education. This online course highlights key areas of assessment, intervention, and advocacy for older clients living with diabetes.
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The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
Rationale of the Week | Best treatment for Diabetes + Heart Disease?
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on Best treatment for Diabetes + Heart Disease? 70% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question
Question: BT has a history of stroke and new diagnosis of diabetes with an A1C of 6.9%.
Which of following treatment strategies is most appropriate for a person with new type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease (CVD)?
Answer Choices:
- Start metformin and limit other meds to determine glucose response.
- Initiate lifestyle changes plus a statin and re-evaluate A1C in 3 months.
- Make sure BT is taking both an ACE and an ARB to reduce CV risk.
- Start a GLP-1 RA or SGLT2 with proven cardiovascular benefit.
Getting to the Best Answer
Answer 1 is incorrect. 7% chose this answer, “Start metformin and limit other meds to determine glucose response.” Based on ADA guidelines, we need to take a person’s CV and renal status into account when determining the most beneficial treatment for someone with newly diagnosed diabetes. Given the fact that BT has a history of a stroke, the MOST beneficial initial medication would be a SGLT-2 or a GLP-1 RA with proven CV benefit. Even though BT’s A1C is on target, starting either of these meds would lower their risk of another CV event. See Medication PocketCards
Answer 2 is incorrect. 14% of you chose this answer, “Initiate lifestyle changes plus a statin and re-evaluate A1C in 3 months.” Based on ADA guidelines, BT would absolutely need to be started on a statin with close monitoring of A1C coupled with lifestyle. However, we need to take a person’s CV risk status into account when determining the most beneficial treatment for someone with newly diagnosed diabetes. Given the fact that BT has a history of a stroke and new diabetes, the MOST beneficial initial medication would be a SGLT-2 or a GLP-1 RA with proven CV benefit. See Medication PocketCards
Answer 3 is incorrect. About 7% of respondents chose this, “Make sure BT is taking both an ACE and an ARB to reduce CV risk.” A person with diabetes plus hypertension and a history of stroke, would benefit from ONE of these. It is NOT recommended to take and ACE and ARB together, due the possibility of kidney complications. See HTN Med Cheat Sheets.
Finally, Answer 4 is correct. 70% chose this answer, “Start a GLP-1 RA or SGLT2 with proven cardiovascular benefit.” Based on ADA guidelines, we need to take a person’s CV risk status into account when determining the most beneficial treatment for someone with newly diagnosed diabetes. Given the fact that BT has a history of a stroke, the MOST beneficial initial medication would be a SGLT-2 or a GLP-1 RA with proven CV benefit. See Medication PocketCards.
Want to learn more about this topic? View our Level 2 Webinar – CV Disease and Decreasing Risk based on 2025 ADA Standards. Earn 1.5 CEs.
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
You won’t want to miss our upcoming Tech Data Toolkit!
Join us live on May 8th & May 15th!! Use discount code “success10” for an additional 10% off!
Session 1 – May 8th
with Beverly Thomassian at 11:30am to 12:30pm PST
Session 2 – May 15th
with Dr. Diana Isaacs at 11:30am to 2:30pm PST
If you are preparing for certification exams or want to up your game using CGM data to improve outcomes, this course is for you.
Gain confidence in interpreting Glucose Profile Report (AGP) & CGM data using a person-centered approach!
We still have room available for the May 8th kick off date.
With diabetes technology entering all aspects of diabetes care, figuring out how to make sense of all the data can seem overwhelming. Join Diana Issacs and Coach Beverly for a truly unique learning experience. Dr. Isaacs has a special knack for breaking down the essential elements of the Ambulatory Glucose Profile (AGP) report to provide participants with a clear road map for data interpretation. She includes many sample practice cases utilizing CGM data for various types of people with diabetes including type 2 and people with type 1 not on pumps.
Coach Beverly will build on Dr. Isaacs’ presentation. She will expand the focus to include steps to collaborate with the person with diabetes. Using a case study approach, she will provide strategies to integrate the AGP with person-centered care that empowers individuals to experience increased confidence in their diabetes self-management.
By attending this interactive workshop, participants will become more confident in interpreting the AGP and continuous glucose monitor (CGM) data and determining needed medication and lifestyle adjustments with a person-centered approach.
Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post weekly Blog Bytes that are informative and FREE! Every week we post one exam practice Question of the Week and Rationale of the Week. Sign up below!
Recent Blog Bytes
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
Rationale of the Week | What Stage of Change?
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on What Stage of Change? 58% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question
BT was started on a GLP-1 and is losing weight. BT has read articles about the importance of strength training to maintain muscle. They ask you questions about whether using weights or resistance bands is better.
According to the transtheoretical model, what stage of change is BT in?
Answer Choices:
- Contemplation
- Acceptance
- Precontemplation
- Action
Getting to the Best Answer
Answer 1 is correct. 58% chose this answer, “Contemplation.” GREAT JOB! When people are in contemplation stage, they are aware of the need for change and are actively considering making a change within the next six months. They are weighing the pros and cons of changing their behavior. In this situation BT is contemplating two different approaches to strengthening exercises,
Answer 2 is incorrect. 11% of you chose this answer, “Acceptance.” Even though BT may be accepting the need to get active, acceptance is not one of the stages in the transtheoretical model. This was one of those juicy answers.: -)
Answer 3 is incorrect. About 10% of respondents chose this, “Precontemplation.” This answer is tempting, but in precontemplation, individuals are not yet considering changing behavior. They may be unaware of the need for change or may have a resistant attitude toward it. BT wants to increase activity, but is choosing between two strength training options.
Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 20% chose this answer, “Action.” This person is not quite at the action stage. Action is when Individuals are actively modifying behavior, implementing plans, and making observable changes in their behavior, environment, or lifestyle.
Watch our FREE webinar, Behavior Change Made Easy. Register Here >>
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
Join us for our upcoming Tech Data Toolkit Webinar!
Join us live on May 8th & May 15th!
Session 1 – May 8th
with Beverly Thomassian at 11:30am to 12:30pm PST
Session 2 – May 15th
with Dr. Diana Isaacs at 11:30am to 2:30pm PST
Gain confidence in interpreting Glucose Profile Report (AGP) & CGM data using a person-centered approach!
If you are preparing for certification exams or want to up your game using CGM data to improve outcomes, this course is for you.
We still have room available for the May 8th kick off date.
With diabetes technology entering all aspects of diabetes care, figuring out how to make sense of all the data can seem overwhelming. Join Diana Issacs and Coach Beverly for a truly unique learning experience. Dr. Isaacs has a special knack for breaking down the essential elements of the Ambulatory Glucose Profile (AGP) report to provide participants with a clear road map for data interpretation. She includes many sample practice cases utilizing CGM data for various types of people with diabetes including type 2 and people with type 1 not on pumps.
Coach Beverly will build on Dr. Isaacss’ presentation. She will expand the focus to include steps to collaborate with the person with diabetes. Using a case study approach, she will provide strategies to integrate the AGP with person-centered care that empowers individuals to experience increased confidence in their diabetes self-management.
By attending this interactive workshop, participants will become more confident in interpreting the AGP and continuous glucose monitor (CGM) data and determining needed medication and lifestyle adjustments with a person-centered approach.
Topics include:
Review CGM key metrics and individualize time in-range goals.
Learn how to recognize patterns with the AGP report efficiently.
Recommend lifestyle and medication adjustments based on CGM data.
Utilize the AGP report coupled with a person centered approach when meeting with a person with diabetes.
Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post weekly Blog Bytes that are informative and FREE! Every week we post one exam practice Question of the Week and Rationale of the Week. Sign up below!
Recent Blog Bytes
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
Rationale of the Week | Sleep and ADA Recommendations
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on Sleep and ADA Recommendations. 71% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question
Question:
A 62-year-old with type 1 diabetes presents for their follow-up visit. They report struggling with fatigue, poor sleep quality, and difficulty with glucose management despite taking medications as prescribed. Upon review, you find their A1C is 7.6%, and their average nightly sleep duration is 4.5-6 hours per night.
Based on the 2025 ADA Standards of Care, which of the following interventions would be the most appropriate next step to address sleep and glucose management?
Answer Choices:
- Refer to a sleep study to evaluate for obstructive sleep apnea and adjust the medication regimen.
- Encourage engagement in vigorous evening exercise to promote better sleep.
- Screen sleep health and develop a plan to create consistent sleep routines and habits.
- Advise taking over-the-counter melatonin supplements to improve sleep quality.
Getting to the Best Answer
Answer 1 is incorrect. 25% chose this answer, “Refer to a sleep study to evaluate for obstructive sleep apnea and adjust the medication regimen.” While a sleep study may be recommended for suspected sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea (for example: loud snoring, daytime sleepiness), the first step should be a comprehensive sleep health screening. This screening helps identify potential causes of poor sleep, including symptoms of sleep disorders, disruptions from diabetes management (for example: nocturnal hypoglycemia, frequent urination), or anxiety about sleep. Based on the findings, appropriate treatment modifications and referrals can then be made.
Answer 2 is incorrect. 1% of you chose this answer, “Encourage engagement in vigorous evening exercise to promote better sleep.” Although exercise can improve sleep quality, vigorous evening exercise may increase alertness, making it harder to fall asleep. In individuals with type 1 diabetes, this timing of exercise can also increase the risk of nighttime hypoglycemia, further disrupting sleep. Before recommending vigorous exercise, it’s important to first assess sleep habits to better understand the underlying causes of poor sleep quality.
Answer 3 is correct. About 71% of respondents chose the BEST ANSWER – GREAT JOB! “Screen sleep health and develop a plan to create consistent sleep routines and habits.” The 2025 ADA Standards emphasize the importance of screening for sleep health and providing guidance on sleep-promoting routines and habits. Based on screening results, referrals to sleep medicine programs, adjustment in medications or behavioral therapy programs are a few that may be appropriate. Prioritizing improved sleep duration and consistency can support better glucose management, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall well-being.
Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 1% chose this answer, “Advise taking over-the-counter melatonin supplements to improve sleep quality.” While melatonin may be helpful for certain sleep disorders, its use should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and is not recommended within the ADA 2025 Standards of Care. The first-line recommendation should focus on screening to better determine appropriate actions.
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
Want to Prepare for Exam Certification?
Join our Behavior Change Theories Made Easy FREE Webinar on April 22nd at 11:30am PST.
Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post weekly Blog Bytes that are informative and FREE! Every week we post one exam practice Question of the Week and Rationale of the Week. Sign up below!
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The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
Rationale of the Week | Remote Eye Screening Precautions
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on Remote Eye Screening Precautions. 84% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question
Retinal photography with remote reading by experts has great potential to provide screening services in areas where qualified eye care professionals are not readily available.
However, in person exams are still necessary in which of the following scenarios?
Answer Choices:
- If the retinal photos are of optimal quality.
- If abnormalities are detected.
- Immediately after diagnosis of type 1 diabetes.
- For those on long term aspirin therapy.
Getting to the Best Answer
Answer 1 is incorrect. 2% chose this answer, “If the retinal photos are of optimal quality.” If retinal photos of are of high quality and there are no detected abnormalities, the retinal photo is sufficient.
Answer 2 is correct. 84% of you chose this answer, “If abnormalities are detected.” YES, GREAT JOB. If the retinal photos detect any abnormalities, an in-person comprehensive eye exam is necessary.
Answer 3 is incorrect. About 9% of respondents chose this, “Immediately after diagnosis of type 1 diabetes.” People diagnosed with type 1 diabetes are not required to get an immediate eye exam. The ADA Standards state that people with new type 1 diabetes need an eye exam within 5 years.
Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 3% chose this answer, “For those on long term aspirin therapy.” Since aspirin therapy does not elevate the risk of eye disease, individuals taking aspirin can safely participate in remote eye exams without concern.
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
It’s not too late to sign up and join us!
Join our Expert Team at our dynamic Virtual DiabetesEd Training Conference April 16-18th, 2025
Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. Our expert team brings the ADA Standards of Care to life—covering medications, behavior change, technology, and more! If you’re preparing for the CDCES or BC-ADM exam, this conference—paired with free bonus courses—serves as the ideal study companion!
With interactive co-teaching, we keep sessions engaging, relevant, and fun. Let’s learn and grow together!
Our expert team transforms complex diabetes science into clear, practical insights—keeping it real, engaging, and fun! The faculty includes:
- Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BC-ADM, BCACP, CDCES
- Coach Beverly Thomassian, RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM
- Christine Craig, MS, RD, CDCES
- 3 Days: of critical information delivered by passionate speakers in an engaging and fun format!
- 11 Bonus Online Courses: As a course attendee, you automatically receive a bonus online course bundle of 11 online courses valued at over
Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post weekly Blog Bytes that are informative and FREE! Every week we post one exam practice Question of the Week and Rationale of the Week. Sign up below!
Recent Blog Bytes
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
Rationale of the Week | Who Benefits Most from Mindful Eating as a Primary Strategy?
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on Who Benefits Most from Mindful Eating as a Primary Strategy? 67% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question
Question: Mindful eating can support diabetes management in various ways.
For which of the following individuals would mindful eating be most effective as a primary strategy rather than a complementary approach?
Answer Choices:
- A 46-year-old male with type 1 diabetes on a fixed carbohydrate meal plan.
- A 30-year-old pregnant female recently diagnosed with gestational diabetes.
- A clinically underweight 77-year-old female with prediabetes and osteoporosis on a high-protein, high-calcium diet.
- A 28-year-old female with type 2 diabetes, a BMI of 35, and a history of disordered eating
Getting to the Best Answer
If you are thinking about taking the certification exam, this practice test question will set you up for success. Test writers anticipate possible answers based on the details in the question. They will wave those “juicy answers” right under your nose. Your job is to weed through the particulars, pluck out the most important elements and choose the BEST answer.
Mindful eating is a flexible, non-restrictive approach that promotes awareness, self-regulation, and a healthier relationship with food. While many people with diabetes can benefit from mindful eating, individuals with a history of disordered eating often find it to be the most transformative strategy (Kristeller & Hallett, 1999; Miller et al., 2012; Mercado et al., 2021).
Answer 1 is incorrect. 7% chose this answer, “A 46-year-old male with type 1 diabetes on a fixed carbohydrate meal plan:
- Fixed-carb meal plans are essential for stabilizing blood sugar and matching insulin dosages.
- While mindful eating can support self-awareness and reduce mealtime stress, structured meal timing, and portioning remain the primary strategy.”
Answer 2 is incorrect. 15% of you chose this answer, “30-year-old pregnant female recently diagnosed with gestational diabetes:
- Gestational diabetes requires careful carbohydrate distribution and nutrient timing for optimal maternal and fetal health.
- Mindful eating may help reduce stress and support portion awareness, but medical nutrition therapy (MNT) takes priority for managing blood sugar levels during pregnancy.”
Answer 3 is incorrect. About 9% of respondents chose this, “A clinically underweight 77-year-old female with prediabetes and osteoporosis on a high-protein, high-calcium diet:
- While mindful eating can help this individual enhance food enjoyment and reduce mealtime stress, her primary concern is nutritional adequacy and weight gain.
- A structured, high-protein, high-calcium diet supports bone health, prevents muscle loss, and maintains energy balance.
- Encouraging mindful eating without ensuring sufficient caloric intake may not address the underlying need for increased nutrition.”
Finally, Answer 4 is correct. 67% chose this answer, “A 28-year-old female with type 2 diabetes, BMI 35, and a history of disordered eating:
- Mindful eating is particularly effective as a primary strategy for individuals with a history of emotional eating, binge eating, or restrictive dieting.
- It reduces anxiety around food, promotes a nonjudgmental approach to eating, and fosters long-term self-regulation (Miller et al., 2012; Kristeller et al., 2014).
- Studies show mindful eating lowers binge-eating episodes, improves self-efficacy, and helps individuals develop a positive relationship with food (Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 2024; Mercado et al., 2021).”
Why is #4 the correct answer?
Mindful eating is most beneficial as a primary approach for individuals who have struggled with disordered eating patterns. Unlike restrictive diets, it provides a structured yet flexible way to reconnect with hunger cues, reduce emotional eating, and develop sustainable habits.
We hope this week’s rationale clarifies the diverse applications of mindful eating. Thank you for engaging with this question, and we look forward to more learning opportunities together!
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
by Evgenia Evans, MS, RDN, CDCES
References
Aikens, J. E. (2012). Prospective associations between emotional distress and poor outcomes in type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care, 35(12), 2472–2478. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc12-0181
Forman, E. M., Shaw, J. A., Goldstein, S. P., Butryn, M. L., Martin, L. M., Meiran, N., Crosby, R. D., & Manasse, S. M. (2016). Mindful decision making and inhibitory control training as complementary means to decrease snack consumption. Appetite, 103, 176-183. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2016.04.014
Framson, C., Kristal, A. R., Schenk, J. M., Littman, A. J., Zeliadt, S., & Benitez, D. (2009). Development and validation of the Mindful Eating Questionnaire. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 109(8), 1439–1444. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jada.2009.05.006
Fredrickson, B. L. (2004). The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological Sciences, 359(1449), 1367–1377. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2004.1512
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Want to learn more about this question?
Enroll in our upcoming webinar led by Evgenia Evans, MS, RDN, CDCES
Mindful Eating for Successful Diabetes Management
Join us live on June 11, 2025, at 11:30 am PST
This engaging and practical webinar, developed by Evgenia Evans, MS, RDN, CDCES, a positive psychology practitioner, is tailored explicitly for healthcare professionals including dietitians, diabetes care specialists, and providers.
Using evidence-based strategies, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the benefits of incorporating mindfulness into the eating experience, including enhanced glycemic management, improved emotional well-being, and healthier eating behaviors. The webinar includes an overview of mindfulness and mindful eating strategies, such as engaging all five senses, recognizing hunger cues, addressing cravings, and using practical tools to create supportive eating environments.
Participants will also learn how to adapt these approaches to diverse populations and the unique needs of individuals. Join us to deepen your expertise, participate in insightful discussions, and empower individuals to cultivate sustainable, positive relationships with food while achieving long-term health goals.
Course topics:
- Introduction to the concept and benefits of mindful eating for individuals with diabetes
- Overview of key strategies for mindful eating
- Practical tools for incorporating mindful eating into professional practice (of Diabetes Educators)
- Cultural and individual adaptations of the mindful eating approach
Instructor: Evgenia Evans, MS, RDN, CDCES
Evgeniya Evans, MAPP, RDN, LDN, CDCES, specializes in chronic disease prevention, diabetes management, and women’s health. Her unique approach integrates mindfulness-based nutrition and positive psychology, creating transformative impacts on her patients’ health and well-being.
Evgeniya’s academic journey reflects her dedication to lifelong learning and her holistic understanding of nutrition and health. She began with four years of Sociology studies at Omsk State University in Russia, followed by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Illinois Chicago. She furthered her expertise with a master’s degree in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. This diverse educational foundation allows her to address the socio-psychological factors that influence dietary behaviors and deliver a well-rounded approach to patient care.
At Cook County Health’s Diabetes Clinic within the Endocrinology Department, Evgeniya provides medically tailored nutrition therapy and culturally sensitive counseling. She works with individuals from various socio-economic backgrounds, guiding them through their unique health challenges with compassion and precision. Her dedication to creating personalized, sustainable dietary strategies highlights her commitment to promoting long-term health and vitality for her patients.
In addition to her clinical practice, Evgeniya is a passionate educator. She teaches several classes at her clinic, including Pillars of Diabetes Management with Lifestyle, Nutrition for Health and Vitality, and The Art of Mindful Eating. Her emphasis on education underscores her belief in the transformative power of fostering a healthy, enjoyable lifestyle supported by mindful eating and a positive mindset.
Evgeniya envisions a world where individuals are free from the struggles of dieting and food-related shame. She dreams of a future where no one feels deprecated by their appearance or food choices, and everyone enjoys the vitality and health to pursue their dreams. She is devoted to fostering vibrant, authentic lives where cooking, eating, and sharing meals with loved ones are sources of joy, love, and positive connection.
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