Expert consensus on medical nutrition therapy for people with type 2 diabetes

Context: Medical nutritional therapy is a cornerstone intervention for managing type 2 diabetes. However, despite existing clinical guidelines, robust evidence to support recommendations on many topics remains limited. Objective: The objective of this work is to develop an expert consensus that provides clinically relevant guidance by integrating professional expertise with a systematic interpretation of the available evidence. This approach aims to ensure that decisions are informed, balanced, and grounded in the best possible understanding of current research and practical experience. Methods: This consensus process followed a structured three-step approach. First, a focus group was conducted to identify key topics requiring attention. Next, PICO model questions were formulated, and evidence was systematically reviewed to address them. Finally, the Nominal Group Technique was applied to achieve consensus among the panel members. A combination of quantitative and qualitative analysis was used to formulate the final consensus statements. Results: Six main topics related to medical nutritional therapy in type 2 diabetes were rigorously analyzed and discussed. A systematic review of 256 peer-reviewed articles supported the expertise of the multidisciplinary panel. The panel generated 127 ideas across the 6 topics, achieving consensus on 78 of them. These consensus statements provide clear definitions and practical recommendations for implementing medical nutritional therapy in clinical practice. Conclusions: This consensus represents the first step forward in addressing a common yet often overlooked aspect of type 2 diabetes treatment in Colombia: medical nutritional therapy. By integrating multidisciplinary expertise and evidence-based analysis, it delivers actionable and clinically meaningful recommendations to improve patient care.