The incidence of diabetes mellitus increases with age, mainly due to impaired insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity. There is a linear relationship between weight gain and the risk of developing diabetes, with obesity being a significant risk factor. All patients with diabetes mellitus should be informed of the need to change their lifestyle as soon as they are diagnosed. The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of non-pharmacological interventions for optimizing glycemic control in patients with diabetes mellitus. We conducted a documentary and content analysis of the guidelines issued by the American Diabetes Association (ADA), the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) and scientific publications, included in the Medline database. Diabetes self-management education and support, medical nutrition therapy (MNT), routine physical activity and psychosocial care are essential for improving glycemic control in patients with diabetes mellitus. MNT is associated with a reduction in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of 1.0–1.9% in patients with type 1 diabetes and 0.3–2.0% in patients with type 2 diabetes. Regular physical activity (≥150 min/week) leads to an average reduction in HbA1c of 0.66%. The prevalence of diabetic distress ranges between 18-45%. The administration of psychosocial care in patients with diabetes leads to a reduction in HbA1c level by an average of 0.19%.
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