Subscribe
eNewsletter
Ready to get certified?
Free CDCES Coach App
Download
Free Med Pocket Cards
eNewsletter
Free CDCES Coach App
Free Med Pocket Cards
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on diabetes and sleep health. 69% 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 by clicking here.
SW is a 52-year-old living with type 2 diabetes. Over the past year, A1C increased from 7.1% to 8.2%, and blood pressure during their visit was 146/88 mmHg. They report increased fatigue, daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and waking up several times during the night. SW works rotating night shifts at a manufacturing plant.
Which of the following responses would best align with the 2026 ADA Standards of Care?.
Answer A is incorrect. 10.96% chose this answer, “Reassure SW that the sleep complaints are a normal consequence of shift work and focus the visit on intensifying glucose-lowering and antihypertensive medications to address the rising A1C and elevated blood pressure.” This answer is incorrect. While intensifying diabetes medications and addressing hypertension are important components of care, dismissing the sleep complaints as simply a normal consequence of shift work does not align with the 2026 ADA Standards of Care. Keep reading for additional recommendations.
Answer B is incorrect. 4.39% of you chose this answer, “Recommend SW take an over-the-counter melatonin supplement nightly, intensify glucose-lowering medications, and schedule a follow-up in 3 months to reassess A1C and blood pressure.” his answer is incorrect. Although sleep is recognized as a key component of diabetes management, the 2026 ADA Standards of Care do not recommend over-the-counter melatonin as a primary intervention for sleep complaints in people with diabetes. SW’s symptoms with excessive daytime sleepiness and frequent nocturnal awakenings warrant evaluation for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and other sleep disorders. Untreated OSA contributes to hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and hypertension through sympathetic nervous system activation.
Answer C is correct. About 69.30% of respondents chose this: “Screen for sleep health and disorders and refer to a sleep medicine specialist or other qualified specialist, as indicated.” Answer C is correct. You chose the best answer. Great Job! This response directly aligns with the 2026 ADA Standards of Care, Section 5 recommendation to screen for sleep health and refer to sleep medicine specialists and/or qualified behavioral health professionals when indicated. SW’s symptoms are consistent with possible OSA, which has a prevalence of approximately 55% in type 2 diabetes, and the combination of worsening A1C and elevated blood pressure may be partly driven by an untreated sleep disorder. Additionally, individuals with diabetes who perform shift work increase their risk for circadian rhythm disorders, which are associated with elevated A1C, neuropathy, and decreased psychological well-being.
Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 15.35% chose this answer, “Discuss with SW the impacts of night shift work, consider changing to a day shift to improve diabetes self-management, A1c and reduce blood pressure.” Answer D is incorrect. While the 2026 ADA Standards of Care acknowledge that shift work increases the risk for circadian rhythm disorders and is associated with elevated A1C, the Standards do not recommend that individuals quit shift work as a prerequisite for diabetes management. Advising a patient to quit their job is neither practical nor evidence-based and does not address the immediate need for sleep disorder screening and management
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!
Solve common glucose mysteries and optimize time-in-range for people with type 2 diabetes.
Why are glucose levels elevated in the morning? When should insulin be started? What is the next step to get A1c to target? During this course Coach Beverly addresses each of these glucose mysteries and more, using a person-centered approach. She describes a stepwise approach to evaluate glucose patterns and correct common issues encountered by people living with type 2 diabetes.
Course Topics:
Course Objectives
Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to:
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on meal skipping and postprandial hyperglycemia. 97% 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 by clicking here.
A 42-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes presents for follow-up. She reports trying to lose weight by “cutting carbs,” but admits she often skips meals during the day and overeats at night. Current medications include metformin and basal insulin. CGM data shows fasting glucose values within target range, but frequent post-dinner glucose excursions above 240 mg/dL. She asks whether she should continue avoiding carbohydrates altogether.
Which of the following responses by the CDCES is MOST appropriate?
Answer A is incorrect. 1.91% chose this answer, “Recommend eliminating carbohydrates completely to improve glycemic management.” This is not the best answer. Complete carbohydrate elimination is not recommended for most individuals with diabetes. ADA SOC emphasize individualized meal planning and sustainable eating patterns over strict carbohydrate avoidance.
Answer B is correct. 96.65% of you chose this answer, “Encourage balanced meal timing and distribution of carbohydrate intake throughout the day.” Great job! This is the best answer. Current ADA Standards of Care recommendations emphasize individualized meal planning and sustainable eating patterns rather than complete carbohydrate elimination. Skipping meals may contribute to excessive evening hunger and larger postprandial glucose excursions. Supporting balanced meal timing and carbohydrate distribution can improve overall glycemia.
Answer C is incorrect. About 0.96% of respondents chose this: “Advise increasing protein intake only at dinner to prevent glucose excursions.” This is not the best answer. Increasing protein only at dinner does not address the patient’s overall eating pattern or meal timing. High-protein and high-fat meals may also contribute to delayed postprandial hyperglycemia.
Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 0.48% chose this answer, “Recommend avoiding all evening snacks regardless of hunger level.” This is not the best answer. Avoiding all evening snacks is overly restrictive and does not address the likely driver of evening overeating, which is meal skipping earlier in the day. ADA SOC supports individualized, sustainable eating strategies.
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!
🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More
Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026
Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams
🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
📅
2-Day Conference
Oct 22–23, 2026
⏱️
15.5 Live CEs
+ 17 bonus CEs
🏅
CDCES & BC-ADM
Exam Prep + Renewal
📍
San Diego, CA
1.7 mi from airport
The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.
Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.
Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.
On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.
Read more below
📜 Essentials
Registration
+ Printed Syllabus
$559.00
🌟 Deluxe
Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book
$589.00
🏆 Complete – Best Value!
Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book
$669.00
Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.
Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?
The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.
In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.
You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on the best medication for HFpEF. 79% 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 by clicking here.
JL has T2DM, and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Is currently on Metformin 1000mg BID and empagliflozin 25mg daily. Their A1C is 8.1%.
Which agent should be added next, to provide maximum heart failure protection?
Answer A is correct. 79.19% chose this answer, “GLP-1 Receptor Agonist.” Great job, this is the best answer! For patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction, a GLP-1 RA is prioritized to preserve heart function, regardless of A1C.
Answer B is incorrect. 6.04% of you chose this answer, “Sulfonylurea (e.g., Glimepiride).” This is not the best answer. Sulfonylureas will lower blood glucose but will not provide the specific heart protective benefits required for this high-risk individual.
Answer C is incorrect. About 8.05% of respondents chose this: “DPP-4 inhibitor (e.g., Sitagliptin).” This is not the best answer. DPP-IVs not be a good choice, since they don’t have heart protective benefits, and alogliptin and saxagliptin can cause heart failure.
Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 6.71% chose this answer, “Basal insulin based on body weight.” This is not the best answer. While basal insulin will help lower blood glucose levels, it won’t help with heart failure.
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!
FREE Webinar June 11, 2026
Join us on June 11, 2026, at 11:30 am PST, for the 2026 webinar update
Beverly Thomassian, RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM, brings extensive expertise in diabetes foot care, amputation prevention, and comprehensive health assessment.
What’s included:
Are you a healthcare professional providing diabetes care in an under-resourced community? Are you working toward earning your certification in diabetes education (CDCES or BC-ADM?)
If yes, please consider applying for our Bridge Scholarship, which covers the registration cost for the DiabetesEd Training Conference in San Diego, Oct 22-23, 2026 (value of $559). This program will provide you with the content needed to prepare for mastery-level diabetes certification and beyond!
Recipients will be awarded the Training Conference reg fee, including the live program, printed syllabus, 30+ CE’s, plus access to the online bonus courses for one year! Applications Due on July 20th, 2026
🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More
Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026
Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams
🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
📅
2-Day Conference
Oct 22–23, 2026
⏱️
15.5 Live CEs
+ 17 bonus CEs
🏅
CDCES & BC-ADM
Exam Prep + Renewal
📍
San Diego, CA
1.7 mi from airport
The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.
Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.
Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.
On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.
Read more below
📜 Essentials
Registration
+ Printed Syllabus
$559.00
🌟 Deluxe
Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book
$589.00
🏆 Complete – Best Value!
Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book
$669.00
Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.
Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?
The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.
In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.
You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on A1C 7.4% & struggling with hypoglycemia. 83% 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 by clicking here.
A 16-year-old with Type 1 Diabetes uses a CGM and has a Time in Range (70-180 mg/dL) of 72%, but their GMI (Glucose Management Indicator) is 7.4% and they report frequent serious hypoglycemic episodes during the night at least twice a week.
What is the priority intervention?
Answer A is incorrect. 4.78% chose this answer, “Increase the TIR goal to more than 80% to lower the A1C.” Even though the A1C and GMI are above the target, this individual is experiencing frequent hypoglycemia. Increasing the TIR target to 80%, would increase the frequency of their already dangerous hypoglycemic episodes.
Answer B is incorrect. 4.78% of you chose this answer, “Lower the high-glucose alert setting to 150 mg/dL.” Lowering the high glucose alert won’t help prevent hypoglycemic events. It may instead cause alarm fatigue, since the alarm would sound when glucose levels were 150 or greater.
Answer C is incorrect. About 6.96% of respondents chose this: “Recommend a transition to a traditional finger-stick regimen.” We want to maintain the CGM so the individual is alerted to lows and can take immediate action.
Finally, Answer D is correct. 83.48% chose this answer, “Adjust basal rates to reduce Time Below Range (< 70 mg/dL).” You chose the best answer. Great Job! This best answer recognizes that basal rates are most likely causing hypoglycemia during the night. Reducing the basal rates will decrease the frequency of hypoglycemia. For safety, fix the “lows” is the priority before addressing glucose above target.
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!
🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More
Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026
Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams
🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
📅
2-Day Conference
Oct 22–23, 2026
⏱️
15.5 Live CEs
+ 17 bonus CEs
🏅
CDCES & BC-ADM
Exam Prep + Renewal
📍
San Diego, CA
1.7 mi from airport
The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.
Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.
Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.
On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.
Read more below
📜 Essentials
Registration
+ Printed Syllabus
$559.00
🌟 Deluxe
Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book
$589.00
🏆 Complete – Best Value!
Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book
$669.00
Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.
Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?
The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.
In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.
You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on who would most benefit from metformin therapy. 63.26% 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 by clicking here.
Which individual with prediabetes would derive the greatest long-term benefit from the initiation of metformin therapy according to the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) outcomes?
Answer A is incorrect. 5.43% chose this answer, “A. A 72-year-old male with a BMI of 24 kg/m².” This is not the best answer since Metformin’s benefit decreases with age and is less effective in those with lower BMIs.
Answer B is correct. 63.26% of you chose this answer, “45-year-old female with a history of gestational diabetes (GDM).” Correct. Yes, this is the best answer! Great Job! The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) trial data proved that Metformin was highly effective for women with a history of GDM, reducing their risk of developing T2DM by about 50%.
Answer C is incorrect. About 19.35% of respondents chose this: “A 25-year-old male with a BMI of 32 and a fasting glucose of 98 mg/dL.” This is a juicy answer, but even though the BMI is elevated, since the BG is below the diagnostic threshold, metformin is not indicated.
Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 11.96% chose this answer, “A 65-year-old female with a BMI of 28 kg/m².” Another false answer. Even though this person is 65 with an elevated BMI, there is no glucose information that indicates that they would benefit from metformin.
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!
Are you a healthcare professional providing diabetes care in an under-resourced community? Are you working toward earning your certification in diabetes education (CDCES or BC-ADM?)
If yes, please consider applying for our Bridge Scholarship, which covers the registration cost for the DiabetesEd Training Conference in San Diego, Oct 22-23, 2026 (value of $559). This program will provide you with the content needed to prepare for mastery-level diabetes certification and beyond!
Recipients will be awarded the Training Conference reg fee, including the live program, printed syllabus, 30+ CE’s, plus access to the online bonus courses for one year! Applications Due on July 20th, 2026
🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More
Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026
Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams
🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
📅
2-Day Conference
Oct 22–23, 2026
⏱️
15.5 Live CEs
+ 17 bonus CEs
🏅
CDCES & BC-ADM
Exam Prep + Renewal
📍
San Diego, CA
1.7 mi from airport
The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.
Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.
Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.
On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.
Read more below
📜 Essentials
Registration
+ Printed Syllabus
$559.00
🌟 Deluxe
Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book
$589.00
🏆 Complete – Best Value!
Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book
$669.00
Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.
Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?
The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.
In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.
You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on ADCES 7 Self-Care Behaviors. 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 by clicking here.
When providing Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME), which of the following list includes the ADCES 7 Self-Care Behaviors?
Answer A is incorrect. 8.94% chose this answer, “Healthy Eating, Being Active, Insulin Adjustment.” This answer is so close. The 7 ADCES Self-Care Behaviors include Healthy Coping, Healthy Eating, Being Active, Taking Medication, Monitoring, Reducing Risk, Problem Solving. Insulin Adjustment is just one component of Taking Medication.
Answer B is correct. 71.95% of you chose this answer, “Monitoring, Problem Solving, Healthy Coping.” Great JOB! This answer is the best answer. The 7 ADCES Self-Care Behaviors include Healthy Coping, Healthy Eating, Being Active, Taking Medication, Monitoring, Reducing Risk, Problem Solving. This great info to be familiar with for any upcoming certification exam in your future!
Answer C is incorrect. About 10.57% of respondents chose this: “Reducing Risks, Being Active, Social Support.” This answer is so close. The 7 ADCES Self-Care Behaviors include Healthy Coping, Healthy Eating, Being Active, Taking Medication, Monitoring, Reducing Risk, Problem Solving. Social Support falls under the category of Healthy Coping and is not it’s own category.
Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 8.54% chose this answer, “Problem Solving, Reducing Risk, Positive Self-Attitude.” Another juicy answer. The 7 ADCES Self-Care Behaviors include Healthy Coping, Healthy Eating, Being Active, Taking Medication, Monitoring, Reducing Risk, Problem Solving. Positive Self-Attitude might fall under the category of Healthy Coping, but is not it’s own category.
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!
Get exam-ready with confidence.
Course credits through AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
Full accreditation details are available on the registration page
Our CDCES Boot Camp Online Prep Bundle is a comprehensive, high-impact program built specifically for healthcare professionals preparing for the Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) exam who want to level up their clinical knowledge and skills.
This evidence-based study bundle is a comprehensive BC-ADM Boot Camp designed for advanced-level healthcare professionals preparing for the Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management (BC-ADM) exam and will also provide you with state-of-the-art information to level up your clinical practice.
Join national experts including Dr. Diana Isaacs (Cleveland Clinic), Beverly Thomassian (30+ years of experience), and Christine Craig for high-impact, virtual learning—no travel required.
✔ Learn from National Experts — Anywhere
Get the same expert-level instruction you’d receive in person, delivered live to your home or office.
✔ 1-year Access
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on LDL target for 2026. 55% 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 by clicking here.
RZ is 47 years old with type 2 diabetes and hypertension. RZ takes metformin 1000 mg BID, plus lisinopril 20mg daily. RZs LDL is 140 mg/dL.
Based on the most recent ADA Standards, what is the LDL Cholesterol target for RZ?
Answer A is incorrect. 17.99% chose this answer, “LDL less than 100 mg/dL.” This juicy answer was the previous goal for LDL.
But for the past few years, the ADA has established an LDL cholesterol goal of less than 70mg/dL (often using high-intensity statins) in diabetes. Reducing the LDL significantly decreases the risk of major cardiovascular events (heart attacks, strokes) by roughly 20% for every 39 mg/dL reduction. This target stabilizes plaque, slows atherosclerosis, and improves mortality, especially for high-risk individuals.
Answer B is incorrect. 10.80% of you chose this answer, “LDL less than 55 mg/dL.” This answer is tempting. The LDL goal off 55 mg/dL is recommended for individuals with diabetes with existing CV disease. Given that RZ has type 2 and hypertension and a LDL of 140 mg/dL, the ADA goal is to get LDL to half of the current value AND less than 70 mg/dL.
Answer C is incorrect. 16.71% chose this answer, “Determine LDL target based on ASCVD risk.” It might be helpful to calculate CV risk, but the ADA Standards make taking action simple and clear. If a person is 40 years or older, the LDL Goal is less than 70mg/dL and 50% reduction from their current LDL level. For people with diabetes with existing CV disease, the LDL goal is less than 55 mg/dL.
Finally, Answer D is correct. 54.50% of respondents chose this: “LDL less than 70mg/dL.” GREAT JOB! Based on the ADA 2026 guidelines, the LDL Goal is less than 70mg/dL and 50% reduction from their current LDL level, for people with diabetes over the age 40 with CV risk factors.
Reducing the LDL significantly decreases the risk of major cardiovascular events (heart attacks, strokes) by roughly 20% for every 39 mg/dL reduction. This target stabilizes plaque, slows atherosclerosis, and improves mortality, especially for high-risk individuals.
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!
Save $75 thru April 30th
Join national experts including Dr. Diana Isaacs (Cleveland Clinic), Beverly Thomassian (30+ years of experience), and Christine Craig for high-impact, virtual learning—no travel required.
✔ Learn from National Experts — Anywhere
Get the same expert-level instruction you’d receive in person, delivered live to your home or office.
✔ 1-year Access
Get exam-ready with confidence.
Course credits through AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
Full accreditation details are available on the registration page
Our CDCES Boot Camp Online Prep Bundle is a comprehensive, high-impact program built specifically for healthcare professionals preparing for the Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) exam who want to level up their clinical knowledge and skills.
This evidence-based study bundle is a comprehensive BC-ADM Boot Camp designed for advanced-level healthcare professionals preparing for the Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management (BC-ADM) exam and will also provide you with state-of-the-art information to level up your clinical practice.
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on the next steps after 12% weight loss. Over 85% 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 by clicking here.
Question of the Week:
KC is a 62-year-old individual with type 2 diabetes who presents for follow-up after initiating a weight loss program 3 months ago. They report consuming approximately 1,000–1,100 kcal/day and have lost 12% of their body weight, with a current rate of weight loss averaging 5% in the last month.
Their diet excludes most grains and fruits, and they report occasional fatigue and constipation. Current medications include metformin, tirzepatide, and atorvastatin.
Based on current standards of care, what is the most appropriate response regarding nutrition and weight changes?
Answer 1 is incorrect. 1.82% chose this answer, “Continue the current plan, KC is achieving intentional weight loss while enrolled in a weight loss program.” Although KC is achieving clinically significant weight loss, they have multiple risk factors for nutrition deficiencies, including intake <1,200 kcal/day, rapid weight loss (>4% per month), age >50, and restriction of nutrient-dense food groups.1 These risk factors warrant further evaluation before continuation without modification.
Answer 2 is incorrect. 3.03% of you chose this answer, “Titrate GLP-1 receptor agonist to optimize weight loss outcomes.” While GLP-1 receptor agonists are effective for weight management, further intensification may not be appropriate in the setting of already rapid weight loss and inadequate intake. Additional assessment and individualization of outcome goals is recommended before intensification is initiated.
Answer 3 is incorrect. 9.7% chose this answer, “KC has achieved weight loss of more than 10%, consider ceasing weight loss efforts to prevent nutrition deficiencies.” While monitoring weight change is necessary, automatically discontinuing weight loss efforts may not be recommended. Instead, care should focus on optimizing nutritional adequacy, potentially incorporating supplementation, and adjusting the treatment plan to support safe, sustainable weight-loss goals while minimizing nutrition and medical risk.
Finally, Answer 4 is correct. 85.5% of respondents chose this: “Initiate screening for micronutrient deficiencies and assess protein and fiber intake” GREAT JOB! KC meets several high-risk criteria for nutrient deficiencies, including low caloric intake (<1200 calories per day), rapid weight loss (>4% per month), older age, and limited dietary variety. The current standards of care recommend screening for micronutrient deficiencies within these high risk groups. Screening is guided by clinical judgement but nutrients of concern include iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, B1, B12, Vitamin C, and fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.1 It is also recommended to ensure adequate protein intake to preserve lean mass and ensure adequate fiber and fluid intake to address constipation in individuals consuming very low-calorie intake.
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!
🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More
Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026
Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams
🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
📅
2-Day Conference
Oct 22–23, 2026
⏱️
15.5 Live CEs
+ 17 bonus CEs
🏅
CDCES & BC-ADM
Exam Prep + Renewal
📍
San Diego, CA
1.7 mi from airport
The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.
Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.
Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.
On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.
Read more below
📜 Essentials
Registration
+ Printed Syllabus
$559.00
🌟 Deluxe
Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book
$589.00
🏆 Complete – Best Value!
Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book
$669.00
Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.
Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?
The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.
In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.
You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!