Recently posted in U.K. university news, the use of low calorie diets by individuals of South Asian ethnicity promoted weight loss, resulting in the remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Similar postings about T2DM remission have been seen on various social networks, often relating to the DiRECT Trial (Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial), as well as new related clinical practice guidelines in Canada. The PEN Team conducted a quick review of these studies to assess their application to dietetic practice.

Can prescribing ‘food as medicine’ have a positive effect on health outcomes, health care costs and health-related quality of life? A recent U.S. study that looked at the impact of implementing a fruit and vegetable prescription program for adults living with diabetes and food insecurity might provide some answers.

Recently, there’s been more attention in the media on the sugar substitute allulose. The PEN Team thought a look into allulose’s characteristics was warranted to help guide practitioners when responding to client questions about this sugar substitute.

The World Health Organization recently released the Use of Non-Sugar Sweeteners: WHO Guideline. The guideline is based on a 2022 systemic review that used GRADE to summarize the evidence and make a practice recommendation.