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CDCES Exam Success Stories | July 2026 e-News

Please join us in congratulating our new CDCES certificants!

You know how many hours along with blood, sweat and tears that go into preparing for this incredibly challenging diabetes certification exam. We are dedicating space in each month’s newsletter to celebrate this hard-earned success and let folks share their journeys with you.

After passing my CDCES exam, I wanted to thank Coach Beverly and Diabetes Education Services for helping me achieve this goal.

As a full-time Diabetes Nurse Educator, balancing work, studying, and everyday life was challenging. I did not pass on my first attempts, and there were times when I questioned whether I would ever get there. Coach Beverly’s courses helped me organize the material into manageable pieces and focus on understanding concepts rather than simply memorizing facts.

The Diabetes Education Services resources, mini boot camps, and review materials provided a strong foundation and helped me identify areas where I needed additional study. I also supplemented my preparation with the Mometrix CDCES Review Guide and flashcards, along with other study resources, but Coach Beverly’s teaching style made some of the more complex topics much easier to understand and retain.

What I appreciated most was the encouragement to keep going, even when the process felt overwhelming. The combination of quality educational content, practical test-taking strategies, and consistent review ultimately helped me build the confidence I needed on exam day.

After four attempts, I am proud to say that I passed my CDCES exam. To anyone still studying or facing a setback, don’t give up. Every study session builds on the last, and success is possible even if the journey takes longer than expected.

Thank you, Coach Beverly and Diabetes Education Services, for being part of that journey.
Nicki Topolnicki
MSN, RN, CDCES
I worked in an endocrinology clinic for 3 years. Just over a year ago, I changed to an inpatient diabetes educator at the largest hospital in Indiana, Methodist Hospital at IU HEALTH. The whole reason I became a nurse was to be a diabetes educator. I’ve been a type 1 diabetic for 45 years now. Thanks to the CDCES COACH APP AND MANY hours of studying with Beverly. I passed on my first try today. I am truly elated.
Laura Kraycsi
RN, CDCES
When I decided to pursue my CDCES credential, every CDCES colleague I knew recommended Bev’s Boot Camp, and now I see why. As a dietitian, I wanted something to help me organize and apply the incredible amount of diabetes-related knowledge needed for the exam, and the Boot Camp did exactly that. The material was comprehensive and practical, presented in a way that made it easier to connect concepts and retain information. I was fortunate to attend through a scholarship and prepared for the exam while working as a dietitian on a diabetes education team. Even with that experience, I truly believe I could have passed the exam with the Boot Camp alone. It helped me focus my studying, identify areas where I needed more review, and walk into the exam feeling confident and prepared. I’m grateful for the experience and would highly recommend Bev’s CDCES Boot Camp to anyone pursuing their CDCES credential.
Tina Guadan Fogall
MS, RDN, CDCES

We Believe in Your Success!

Preparing for Certification? Apply for our Bridge Scholarship for our

DiabetesEd Training Program in San Diego

Applications Due July 20th, 2026

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

Scholarship Goals

  1. To recognize U.S. healthcare professionals who are making a difference in under-resourced communities; and
  2. To support applicants’ efforts to become a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, CDCES, and
  3. To provide financial assistance for the DiabetesEd Specialist Course registration fee.

What's Included?

  • Health care professionals who are working toward their CDCES and who provide care to an underserved community that lacks access to Diabetes Specialists and healthcare resources
  • Applicants must be in the process of gaining practice hours to take the CDCES Exam within next 3 years.
  • Preference is given to those facing financial hardships that are interfering with their ability to pursue their dream of achieving their CDCES.
  • All applicants must be a U.S. resident.

Join us live in San Diego for our

DiabetesEd Training Program

Brand new agenda for 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

Advance Your Expertise and Prepare for Your Future

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.

Day 1 – ADA/AACE Standards of Care Boot Camp

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.

Day 2 – Insulin, Tech, MNT and Case Studies

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.

Add-On Day 3 – Engaging the Disengaged

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

🌟Registration Options at a Glance

📜 Essentials

Registration
+ Printed Syllabus

$559.00

🌟 Deluxe

Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book

$589.00

🏆 Complete – Best Value!

Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book

$669.00

5 Reasons to Attend

  1. Led by national experts 👩‍⚕️Dr. Diana Isaacs (Cleveland Clinic), Coach Beverly 🧢 (30+ years of experience), and Christine Craig (nutrition whiz).
  2. 🌴 Location makes for a great vacation
  3. Networking, walking paths, connection
  4. Ready yourself for the diabetes future🚀
  5. Have fun, win prizes, play DiaBingo 😄

What's Included?

  • 🍽️ Healthy breakfasts, lunch, refreshments and coffee ☕
  • 📘 100-page printed syllabus
  • 🎤 2 days of engaging, expert-led education with case studies.
  • 🎓 12 FREE online courses ($375 value)
  • Free MedPocketCard & Coach Bev’s Book 📗 Healing through Connection.

Add on a 3rd Day!
Enroll in ENGAGING THE DISENGAGED
Strategies for Promoting Behavior Change in Diabetes
October 24, 2026

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!

Rationale of the Week | Which one of these belong to the ADCES 7?

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.

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

When providing Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME), which of the following list includes the ADCES 7 Self-Care Behaviors?

  • A. Healthy Eating, Being Active, Insulin Adjustment
  • B. Monitoring, Problem Solving, Healthy Coping.
  • C. Reducing Risks, Being Active, Social Support.
  • D. Problem Solving, Reducing Risk, Positive Self-Attitude.

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.

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!

Set Yourself Up With Certification Success

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.

What's Included?

CDCES Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses from the fundamentals to the ADA standards, to test strategies and exam mastery! Includes Levels 1, 2 and 3.
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited). IN
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build confidence
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

BC-ADM Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses covering advanced diabetes management, ADA standards, medication review, insulin calculations and tech topics! Includes advanced levels 2, 3, 4. 
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited).
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build BC-ADM test confidence.
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

Enroll Now for our
Virtual DiabetesEd Training Conference
Now Available On-Demand

Why Should I Attend?

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

  • Full session recordings with 1-year access if you can’t attend live

What's Included?

  • 19.5 CEs from the 3-day interactive conference + 17+ bonus CEs from 11 on-demand courses. (30+ total CEs are AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited)
  • Less than $15 per credit!
  • Expert-led sessions: ADA Standards, medications, insulin therapy, behavior change, CGM, medical nutrition therapy
  • 1-year access to all recordings that you can watch on your schedule
  • Study material for CDCES and BC-ADM exam prep

Celebrating Nurses Week: 40 Years of Healing through Connection

Every year, National Nurses Week invites us to pause and honor a profession rooted in compassion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to care.

This Nurses Week, I encourage you to take a moment to appreciate a nursing colleague, friend or family member. Let them know how their care and compassion has made a difference in your life!

As I reflect on my 40 years as a nurse, I feel both humbled and energized by the extraordinary legacy we carry forward. Nursing is not just a career—it is a calling shaped by human connection, scientific curiosity, and the courage to show up, again and again, for people in their most vulnerable moments.

History of Nurses Day and Week

Efforts to create formal nurses’ recognition began in 1954 on the 100th anniversary of Nightingale’s Crimean War service. After decades of advocacy by nursing organizations, the ANA designated May 6 as National Nurses Day in 1982 and expanded it to a week-long observance in 1994. These fixed dates enhance planning and align the tribute with Nightingale’s birthday.

The history of nursing is rich with pioneers who transformed care through both innovation and heart. Florence Nightingale is often recognized as the founder of modern nursing, bringing sanitation and data-driven care to the forefront. But beyond her statistics and systems, she modeled something deeper—the importance of presence. That legacy continues today in every nurse who sits at the bedside, listens without judgment, and advocates fiercely for those in their care.

The observance recognizes the critical role of nurses in patient care, research, leadership, and education. It raises public awareness of the challenges nurses face, such as staffing shortages and workplace stress – and promotes professional pride and public gratitude. The ANA and partner bodies like the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses host webinars, award ceremonies, and advocacy events to spotlight the profession’s impact

Nurses Take Leading Role in Diabetes Care

Today, nurses represent the largest group of healthcare professionals specializing in diabetes. Nearly half (46%) of those who hold a CDCES credential are nurses. That’s not just a statistic—it’s a reflection of the profound impact nurses have in shaping how diabetes care is delivered, understood, and experienced every day.

In the world of diabetes care, nurses have been at the center of transformation. From the early days of checking urine glucose to administering pork and beef insulin to today’s advanced technologies, nurses have led the way.  As early adopters of continuous glucose monitoring and automated insulin delivery systems, nurses have bridged the gap between complex science and real-life application. We are educators, coaches, and translators—helping people make sense of numbers, medications, and daily decisions that can feel overwhelming.

What makes diabetes nursing uniquely powerful, is the ongoing contact nurses often maintain with individuals over a lifetime. Diabetes doesn’t take a day off, and neither does the emotional weight that often accompanies it. In my work, I’ve learned that the most meaningful breakthroughs don’t come from adjusting a medication or starting a CGM, they come from creating a space where someone feels seen, heard, and supported.  

Nurses as a Guiding Force

Over the decades, I’ve witnessed incredible advancements in diabetes care—new medications, smarter devices, and more personalized approaches. Nurses, along with their colleagues, are often the steady thread in a fragmented healthcare system. We are the ones who notice subtle changes, ask deeper questions, and advocate when something doesn’t feel right. In diabetes care, this might mean recognizing patterns in glucose trends, addressing social determinants of health, or simply acknowledging the burnout a person feels after years of self-management. These moments matter more than we often realize.

As I reflect on my journey, from bedside nursing to education, from rural clinics to national stages – I am continually reminded that our greatest impact comes not from having all the answers, but from presence. The simple act of sitting with someone, validating their experience, and walking alongside them can be profoundly healing – for them and for us. This mutual growth is at the heart of sustainable, meaningful care.

Heartfelt THANK YOU to all my nurse colleagues, leaders, and friends.

In hospitals, clinics, schools, and beyond – you show up at every hour of the day and night, bringing skill, compassion, and unwavering dedication. You give of yourselves in ways both seen and unseen, helping others heal, receive comfort, and feel cared for in their most vulnerable moments.

National Nurses Week offers us a moment to pause and honor your service and a profession grounded in compassion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to showing up for others. Thank YOU!

Coach Beverly, RN and author of Healing through Connection for Healthcare Professionals!

Set Yourself Up With Certification Success

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.

What's Included?

CDCES Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses from the fundamentals to the ADA standards, to test strategies and exam mastery! Includes Levels 1, 2 and 3.
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited). IN
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build confidence
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

BC-ADM Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses covering advanced diabetes management, ADA standards, medication review, insulin calculations and tech topics! Includes advanced levels 2, 3, 4. 
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited).
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build BC-ADM test confidence.
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

Enroll Now for our
Virtual DiabetesEd Training Conference
Now Available On-Demand

Why Should I Attend?

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

  • Full session recordings with 1-year access if you can’t attend live

What's Included?

  • 19.5 CEs from the 3-day interactive conference + 17+ bonus CEs from 11 on-demand courses. (30+ total CEs are AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited)
  • Less than $15 per credit!
  • Expert-led sessions: ADA Standards, medications, insulin therapy, behavior change, CGM, medical nutrition therapy
  • 1-year access to all recordings that you can watch on your schedule
  • Study material for CDCES and BC-ADM exam prep

Question of the Week | The role of CDCES in addressing psychosocial needs

Question of the Week Diabetes Education Services

A 45 year old man with type 2 diabetes is referred to a CDCES with a persistently elevated A1c (9.4%). He has missed multiple follow-up appointments and reports inconsistent medication use.
During the visit, he shares that he recently lost his job, is staying intermittently with friends, and often skips meals due to limited food access. He reports feeling “constantly stressed” and “burned out” with diabetes management.

A Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS) score indicates moderate distress, and a PHQ-9 score is 4 (minimal depressive symptoms). He denies suicidal ideation.

Which of the following is the most appropriate next step for the CDCES?

  • A. Refer immediately to a psychiatrist for evaluation of depression and initiate pharmacologic treatment.
  • B. Provide structured problem-solving support, address social needs, and coordinate with appropriate team members.
  • C. Delay intervention until glycemia improves, then reassess psychosocial concerns.
  • D. Focus primarily on intensifying glucose monitoring and medication adherence strategies.

Set Yourself Up With Certification Success

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.

Starting at $449

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.

Starting at $459

What's Included?

CDCES Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses from the fundamentals to the ADA standards, to test strategies and exam mastery! Includes Levels 1, 2 and 3.
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited). IN
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build confidence
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

BC-ADM Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses covering advanced diabetes management, ADA standards, medication review, insulin calculations and tech topics! Includes advanced levels 2, 3, 4. 
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited).
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build BC-ADM test confidence.
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

Enroll Now for our
Virtual DiabetesEd Training Conference
Now Available On-Demand

Why Should I Attend?

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

  • Full session recordings with 1-year access if you can’t attend live

What's Included?

  • 19.5 CEs from the 3-day interactive conference + 17+ bonus CEs from 11 on-demand courses. (30+ total CEs are AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited)
  • Less than $15 per credit!
  • Expert-led sessions: ADA Standards, medications, insulin therapy, behavior change, CGM, medical nutrition therapy
  • 1-year access to all recordings that you can watch on your schedule
  • Study material for CDCES and BC-ADM exam prep

Starting at $479

Rationale of the Week | How Much Protein is Recommended?

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on how much protein is recommended. 73% 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.

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

AR is a 63-year-old with type 1 diabetes and mild hypertension. Their GFR is 41 mL/min/1.73m² and UACR is 312 mg/g and their BMI is 24. The provider asks you to instruct AR on a low-protein diet, since AR is in stage 3 CKD. What is your best response?

  • A. Agree to provide education for AR low protein (0.6 -0.8 g/kg/day) to slow kidney disease progression.
  • B. Reframe and suggest protein intake of about 0.8 g/kg/day as supported by ADA guidelines.
  • C. Suggest AR eliminates most protein sources and focus primarily on fiber, carbohydrates and fats.
  • D. Reinforce that a protein intake of 1.3 g/kg/day is warranted to prevent sarcopenia and maintain muscle mass.

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.

Answer A is incorrect. 16.88% chose this answer, “Agree to provide education for AR low protein (0.6 -0.8 g/kg/day) to slow kidney disease progression.” This answer is incorrect. Very low-protein diets (<0.6 g/kg/day) have not consistently shown additional renal benefit and may increase the risk of malnutrition, sarcopenia, and frailty, especially in older adults like AR (age 63).

Answer B is correct. 73.05% of you chose this answer, “Reframe and suggest protein intake of about 0.8 g/kg/day as supported by ADA guidelines.” This answer is correct. GREAT Job! People with stage 3 CKD need adequate plant-based or animal protein intake to maintain muscle mass and optimize health and well-being.

Answer C is incorrect. About 2.52% of respondents chose this: “Suggest AR eliminates most protein sources and focus primarily on fiber, carbohydrates and fats.” This answer is incorrect. Since people with diabetes need to consume adequate amounts of either plant-based on animal protein (~0.8 g/kg/day) to maintain muscle mass and optimize health.

Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 7.56% chose this answer, “Reinforce that a protein intake of 1.3 g/kg/day is warranted to prevent sarcopenia and maintain muscle mass.” This answer is incorrect. Higher protein intake (>1.3 g/kg/day) may increase intraglomerular pressure and albuminuria, potentially accelerating kidney decline.

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?

Enroll in our
Virtual DiabetesEd Training Conference

Why Should I Attend?

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.

✔ Interactive & Flexible

  • Full session recordings with 1-year access if you can’t attend live

What's Included?

  • 19.5 CEs from the 3-day interactive conference + 17+ bonus CEs from 11 on-demand courses. (30+ total CEs are AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited)
  • Less than $15 per credit!
  • Expert-led sessions: ADA Standards, medications, insulin therapy, behavior change, CGM, medical nutrition therapy
  • 1-year access to all recordings that you can watch on your schedule
  • Study material for CDCES and BC-ADM exam prep

Set Yourself Up With Certification Success

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.

What's Included?

CDCES Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses from the fundamentals to the ADA standards, to test strategies and exam mastery! Includes Levels 1, 2 and 3.
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited). IN
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build confidence
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

BC-ADM Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses covering advanced diabetes management, ADA standards, medication review, insulin calculations and tech topics! Includes advanced levels 2, 3, 4. 
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited).
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build BC-ADM test confidence.
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

Nutrition Therapy in Dyslipidemia

Comparing the newly released 2026 Dyslipidemia Guidelines and 2026 ADA Standards of Care

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of mortality in individuals with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, emphasizing the importance of risk reduction. 

The 2026 ADA Standards & Dyslipidemia Guidelines from ACC & AHA

The current Standards of Care in Diabetes from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommend comprehensive risk reduction through screening, pharmacologic therapy to achieve individualized blood pressure and lipid goals, and lifestyle interventions focused on diet and physical activity. 

The 2026 Dyslipidemia Guideline from the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association (ACC/AHA), together with guidance from multiple professional societies, provides updated recommendations for assessing cardiovascular risk assessment and treatment. 

Both guidelines emphasize the importance of screening (with new additions within the ACC/AHA guidelines), pharmacologic treatment for primary and secondary prevention and highlight lifestyle management to reduce atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

The 2026 ADA Standards of Care ASCVD Recommendations

The 2026 ADA Standards of Care recommend individualized medical nutrition therapy (MNT) based on an individual’s eating patterns, preferences, age, comorbidities, treatment plan, and metabolic goals.1 Recommended patterns include Mediterranean-like diet, Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), and plant-based approaches, all of which are associated with reduced ASCVD risk. 

Key strategies include increasing plant-based proteins, reducing saturated fat (replacing it with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats), increasing dietary omega-3 fatty acids, increasing fiber rich carbohydrates (particularly soluble fiber), and increasing plant stanols or sterols.1 Limited research exists regarding ASCVD prevention specifically for individuals living with type 1 diabetes, so most recommendations are extrapolated from type 2 diabetes research, including dietary approaches, with implied benefit for both groups.1

The 2026 Dyslipidemia Guidelines from ACC/AHA Recommendations

The 2026 Dyslipidemia Guideline has comparative recommendations, encouraging a dietary pattern rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, whole grains, and fiber, while reducing saturated fat and replacing it with mono and polyunsaturated fats. It noted that dietary patterns that reduce saturated fat and increase unsaturated fat was more effective than restricting dietary cholesterol.2 

The guideline reinforces the cardiovascular benefits of the Mediterranean, DASH, and vegetarian eating patterns and highlights the under-recognized Portfolio dietary pattern, which was shown to lower LDL by approximately 26 mg/dL. This dietary pattern emphasizes inclusion of 50 grams of plant-based protein per day, 45 grams of nuts, at least 10 grams of viscous fiber, and 2 grams of plant sterols per day.

Additional guidelines are given for hypertriglyceridemia depending upon level of elevation2. If triglycerides (TGs) are 150-499, added sugars are limited to 6% of calories, total fat is 30-35%, and alcohol is to be avoided. If TGs are 500-999, added sugars are limited to <5% of calories, total fat to 20-25%, and it is recommended to abstain completely from alcohol. If TGs are over 1000 mg/dl, added sugars are eliminated, total fat is limited to 10-19%, and again, alcohol abstinence is recommended. 

For all groups, 150 minutes of activity is recommended, and 5-10% weight loss is considered for individuals who may benefit. Consideration of the amount, type, and quality of carbohydrates shows efficacy in lowering TGs. In addition to LDL and TG lowering, dietary patterns aim to improve overall metabolic health, including weight reduction, reduced inflammation, and improved blood pressure and glucose control.2

The Impact of Nutrition Cannot be Underestimated

45% of CVD-related deaths are linked to poor diet quality4; however, the Dyslipidemia Guidelines call out the conundrum of individual variability in LDL response to dietary changes, particularly reductions in saturated fat intake2. While replacing saturated fats with foods high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats is consistently associated with LDL-C reduction4, individual responses vary widely.

These individual differences mean that two people on the same heart-healthy diet may see different LDL outcomes.

 For example, some genetic variants affect how efficiently the body clears LDL particles.5 Inflammation and insulin resistance may influence dietary LDL lowering, since hyperinsulinemia impacts hepatic lipid synthesis, clearance, and LDL particle composition.6 Variations in bile acid synthesis and reabsorption also contribute, since bile acids play a key role in cholesterol homeostasis. Finally, overall dietary and other lifestyle patterns affect LDL response, highlighting the importance of comprehensive and personalized strategies.

Healthful Dietary Patterns Reflect the Synergy - Not single Nutrient Change

Healthful dietary patterns reflect the synergy of the overall diet, not just a single macronutrient change.

The ADA Standard of Care and the ACC/AHA Dyslipidemia guidelines align in recommending dietary patterns based on whole foods, increased fiber intake, reduced red meat and processed meat consumption, reduced saturated fat intake, and comprehensive lifestyle interventions. However, gaps remain.

More research is needed to clarify how specific individual differences influence dietary needs, how dietary patterns affect emerging lipid markers (ApoB, endothelial function, inflammation, etc.), nutrition interventions impacting cardiovascular risk reduction for individuals with type 1 diabetes, and the long-term impact of nutrition interventions over a lifetime4.

Cardiovascular risk reduction requires team-based care, addressing not only diet but social determinants of health, activity, tobacco cessation, sleep hygiene, and pharmacotherapy to manage cholesterol, blood glucose, blood pressure, and comorbidities increasing risk. As evidence evolves, diabetes health care professionals can help translate these guidelines into practical, personalized strategies to support heart health.

Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES
Founder: Nutrition for Daily Living

References:

  1. American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee for Diabetes*; 10. Cardiovascular Disease and Risk Management: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026. Diabetes Care1 January 2026; 49 (Supplement_1): S216–S245. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc26-S010
  2. Blumenthal, R, Morris, P, Gaudino, M. et al. 2026 ACC/AHA/AACVPR/ABC/ACPM/ADA/AGS/APhA/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline on the Management of Dyslipidemia: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines. JACC. null2026, 0 (0). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2025.11.016
  3. Aley SF, Goldin J. Dietary Therapy for LDL Cholesterol Reduction: Evidence-Based Patterns for Cardiovascular Risk Management. [Updated 2026 Feb 15]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2026 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551722.
  4. Johnson SA, Kirkpatrick CF, Miller NH, Carson JAS, Handu D, Moloney L. Saturated fat intake and the prevention and management of cardiovascular disease in adults: an Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics evidence-based nutrition practice guideline. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 2023;123(12):1808-1830. doi:10.1016/j.jand.2023.07.017.
  5. Griffin BA, Mensink RP, Lovegrove JA. Does variation in serum LDL-cholesterol response to dietary fatty acids help explain the controversy over fat quality and cardiovascular disease risk? 2021;328:108-113. doi:10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2021.03.024
  6. Petersen KS, Bowen KJ, Tindall AM, Sullivan VK, Johnston EA, Fleming JA, Kris-Etherton PM. The Effect of Inflammation and Insulin Resistance on Lipid and Lipoprotein Responsiveness to Dietary Intervention. Curr Dev Nutr. 2020 Oct 15;4(11):nzaa160. doi:10.1093/cdn/nzaa160.

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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.

What's Included?

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  • 30+ expert-led courses from the fundamentals to the ADA standards, to test strategies and exam mastery! Includes Levels 1, 2 and 3.
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  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build confidence
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

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  • 30+ expert-led courses covering advanced diabetes management, ADA standards, medication review, insulin calculations and tech topics! Includes advanced levels 2, 3, 4. 
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  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build BC-ADM test confidence.
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Question of the Week | Which one of these belong to the ADCES 7?

Question of the Week Diabetes Education Services

When providing Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME), which of the following list includes the ADCES 7 Self-Care Behaviors?

  • A. Healthy Eating, Being Active, Insulin Adjustment
  • B. Monitoring, Problem Solving, Healthy Coping.
  • C. Reducing Risks, Being Active, Social Support.
  • D. Problem Solving, Reducing Risk, Positive Self-Attitude.

Want to learn more about this question?

Set Yourself Up With Certification Success

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.

What's Included?

CDCES Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses from the fundamentals to the ADA standards, to test strategies and exam mastery! Includes Levels 1, 2 and 3.
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited). IN
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build confidence
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

BC-ADM Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses covering advanced diabetes management, ADA standards, medication review, insulin calculations and tech topics! Includes advanced levels 2, 3, 4. 
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited).
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build BC-ADM test confidence.
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

Rationale of the Week | LDL Target for 2026?

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.

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

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?

  • A. LDL less than 100 mg/dL.
  • B. LDL less than 55 mg/dL
  • C. Determine LDL target based on ASCVD risk
  • D. LDL less than 70 mg/dL

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.

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!

Want to learn more about this question?

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Set Yourself Up With Certification Success

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.

What's Included?

CDCES Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses from the fundamentals to the ADA standards, to test strategies and exam mastery! Includes Levels 1, 2 and 3.
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited). IN
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build confidence
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

BC-ADM Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses covering advanced diabetes management, ADA standards, medication review, insulin calculations and tech topics! Includes advanced levels 2, 3, 4. 
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited).
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build BC-ADM test confidence.
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace