If you have diabetes and need to lose weight, our dietitians can help. We offer personalized meal plans and nutrition guidelines — so you know what to eat and how to safely keep control over your blood sugar levels.

We’ve found that carbohydrates have the biggest effect on blood sugar, so our dietitians will work with you to determine the right balance of carbs, fat, protein, and other important nutrients. This way, you’ll feel confident that you’re eating healthy and doing everything possible to get your weight (and health) in control.

At Joslin, we understand that exercise is medicine for the body. If your doctor recommends that you start a physical activity program, we will work with you to recommend activities and encourage your success.

Many of our patients start out by walking to improve their health. If they’re able and willing, they also do light strength training exercises — and safely build up their physical fitness levels. Regular exercise helps them keep their blood sugar levels in control and helps boost their energy and mood. No matter where you’re at, we’re happy to talk with you about starting an exercise program and recommend an approach that is achievable, goal-oriented, and fun.

Studies have shown metabolic surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, can help control blood sugar even better than lifestyle and medical therapy in some patients with type 2 diabetes.

After surgery, some of our patients see major improvement in their blood sugar levels, need fewer medications, and even have complete remission of diabetes. In fact, several professional organizations, including the American Diabetes Association, now recommends metabolic surgery as a treatment for type 2 diabetes.

The staff of Joslin’s Metabolic Surgery Clinic can help you decide if metabolic surgery is right for you. Together, we’ll talk through the following questions:

• Are you a good candidate for metabolic surgery?
• What are the differences between the various types of surgery (gastric bypass versus sleeve gastrectomy)?
• What are the chances your diabetes will go into remission after metabolic surgery?
• Is metabolic surgery safe?

If you decide surgery is right for you, the our team will work closely with you and your surgical team as you prepare for the procedure. We’ll develop a personal diabetes treatment plan for you — for both before and after your procedure — and help make sure you have a successful outcome and meet your weight loss goals.