Cultural backgrounds influence how people understand illness and respond to treatment, including dietary advice.
In regions like Asia, traditional diets (such as high intake of white rice) and social eating customs can make standard diabetes diets difficult to follow.
Diabetes remains one of the most prevalent concerns in Malaysia.
The IDF Diabetes Atlas, released at the World Diabetes Congress 2025, found that among Asean countries, Malaysia has the highest prevalence of diabetes for adults aged 20 to 79 at 19.9 per cent, which is higher than the global average (11.1 per cent).
Also, a high proportion of Malaysian adults are unaware of their diabetic status. Currently, about 3.6 million Malaysian adults are living with diabetes.
Abbott’s nutrition medical director in Malaysia, Dr Nina Mazera Mohd Said, says those with type 2 diabetes are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases due to various factors, including high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), insulin resistance and other metabolic abnormalities.
“Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition heavily influenced by lifestyle choices, and its prevalence is indicative of the sedentary habits and poor dietary adherence that are common today.”
The Asian diet comprises high amounts of low-quality carbohydrates, which are associated with poor glycemic control.
For optimal diabetes management, early intervention to incorporate individualised nutritional plans and lifestyle changes are essential, says Malaysian Dietitians’ Association vice-president Professor Dr Winnie Chee Siew Swee.
Diabetes-specific medical nutrition therapy (MNT) is an often-overlooked approach in diabetes management, she adds.
MNT is the use of nutrition as therapy to improve health and quality of life, the core principles comprising dietary quality and energy restriction.
Studies have shown that people with type 2 diabetes may benefit from structured low-calorie diets and achieve improved patient outcomes.
But their feasibility and sustainability over time in real-world situations may be challenging.
One option is the integration of diabetes-specific formulas as partial or total meal replacements into daily routines.
This may present a more practical approach for individuals seeking sustainable and practical strategies, particularly those who are overweight or obese and with diabetes.
Incorporating meal replacements can provide individuals with the opportunity to include other nutritious foods in their diet, potentially boosting compliance with their dietary regimen.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
