Randomized controlled nutrition therapy outcome studies have documented decreases in HbA1c of 1% in newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes, 2% in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes, and 1% in type 2 diabetes with an average duration of 4 years. MNT should be considered as monotherapy, along with physical activity, in the initial treatment of type 2 diabetes, provided the person has a fasting plasma glucose 200 mg/dl. Individuals with type 2 diabetes who cannot achieve optimal control with MNT and whose disease may be progressing due to -cell failure should be prescribed blood glucose– lowering medication, along with additional encouragement to achieve goals of MNT and physical activity.