NUTRITIONAL THERAPY FOR DIABETES MELLITUS

摘要

The objectives of nutritional management of dogs and cats with diabetes mellitus are to provide adequate nutrients for achieving and maintaining ideal body weight and body condition, to provide optimal conditions for achieving good glycemic control, and to prevent or manage concurrent diseases or complications of diabetes. To achieve and maintain ideal body condition, a well-balanced diet should be fed in amounts sufficient to meet daily caloric needs. Optimal conditions for attaining good glycemic control include consistent dietary intake, a meal schedule that is coordinated with the physiologic effects of the administered insulin, and consideration of the nutrient composition of the diet. Steps taken to help prevent and/or manage concurrent diseases or complications range from changes made to improve glycemic control to dietary changes geared to a specific disease or complication. Once a nutritional plan has been developed for the individual dog or cat, the regimen must be kept consistent. Any change in the feeding schedule, diet composition, or body weight will require re-evaluation of the pet's glycemic control, because these factors all affect the required insulin dose. Additionally, resolution or development of concurrent problems may necessitate a change in the management plan for the diabetes.