Table 1. 'Low Carb Program' syllabus
WeekTopicObjective
1Welcome to the type 2 diabetes / pre-diabetes program
  • Safety notes and alerts to medications that require healthcare professional teams' assistance

  • Benefits of a reduced carbohydrate diet for people with type 2 diabetes

  • Benefits of a reduced carbohydrate diet for people with pre-diabetes

2Type 2 diabetes and diet
  • Factors that affect blood glucose levels

  • Encouragement to engage with their healthcare providers

3Controlling portion sizes
  • Introducing visual methods for interpreting portion size

4Real versus processed foods
  • Identifying and eliminating refined and processed food

5Healthy and unhealthy fats
  • Discussion of fat types and making appropriate choices depending on goals

6Vegetables
  • Demonstrating the carbohydrate content of vegetables and cooking methods

7Fruit
  • Reviewing the amount of sugar and starch in fruit and vegetables

8Snacks and desserts
  • Examining low-carb snack, dessert, and drink options

9Drinks
  • Tips on alcohol and eating out options

10Eating out and takeaways
  • Managing eating on the go and when travelling

  • Making healthier takeaway and food choices

11Practical ways to eat less carbohydrates
  • Practical tips for reducing carbohydrate intake further

  • Safety information — highlighting medications that require healthcare professional team assistance

12Timing your meal
  • Introducing the principles of reducing the eating window using the 16:8 model