Debriefing Diabetes with Nutrition

Community Walk with a Doc
With Aishwarya Srinivasan MS, RD, LD | Senior Clinical Dietitian – Houston Methodist Hospital (JC Walter Transplant Center)

Date: Saturday Feb 21, 2026
Time: 8:30am. CST
Venue: Tom Bass Regional Park - Pavillion 4

What is Diabetes?

A metabolic condition caused by insufficient insulin production or poor insulin sensitivity

Results in elevated blood glucose levels — diagnosed as diabetes mellitus

Managed through both medication and nutrition

The 3 Key Macronutrients

Carbohydrates — break down into simple sugars/glucose; primary fuel for the body

Protein — supports muscle building, tissue repair, and wear & tear

Fat — provides insulation and concentrated calories

How Glucose Works in the Body

Insulin (produced by the pancreas) uses glucose to power all bodily activities. Dietary carbs are stored in the liver and muscles as glycogen. When carbs are avoided long-term, the body draws on glycogen stores for energy. The Diabetes MyPlate Method (see plate diagram)

½ plate → Non-starchy vegetables & fruits (broccoli, spinach, carrots, berries, apple)

¼ plate → Lean protein (chicken, fish, legumes/dal, tofu, lean meat)

¼ plate → Carb foods (rice, roti, pasta, noodles)

+ Non-caloric beverage (water, unsweetened tea/coffee)

🚶 Community Walk at Tom Bass Park, Houston

Following the nutrition talk, 15 community members participated in a walk at Tom Bass Park

The walk was a wonderful opportunity to put lifestyle recommendations into action, combining nutrition education with physical activity — both essential pillars of diabetes management