Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What is the purpose of recommending whole grains to patients with diabetes?

1. To minimize carbohydrate intake

2. To increase fiber intake

3. To promote weight gain

4. To reduce insulin sensitivity

The correct answer is: To increase fiber intake

Recommending whole grains to patients with diabetes primarily aims to increase fiber intake. Whole grains are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which has numerous benefits for individuals managing diabetes. Fiber helps slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, which leads to more stable blood glucose levels. This gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream can help prevent spikes in blood sugar that are detrimental for individuals with diabetes. In addition to helping with blood sugar control, increased fiber intake can also contribute to improved gastrointestinal health, enhance satiety, and may assist with weight management, which is particularly important for those with diabetes. Whole grains, which include foods like brown rice, whole wheat bread, quinoa, and oats, contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, providing a range of health benefits. The other options do not align with the primary benefits associated with whole grains for individuals with diabetes. For instance, minimizing carbohydrate intake is not necessarily the goal; rather, the focus is on choosing high-quality carbohydrates, such as whole grains, which have a lower glycemic index compared to refined grains. Promoting weight gain is contrary to the health objectives for most individuals with diabetes, where weight management is often a priority. Lastly, whole grains have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity rather than reduce it