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Why Culture Matters in Diabetes Care: Empowering Health Through Inclusion

Managing diabetes is more than just counting carbs and checking blood sugar. For many people, especially those from diverse backgrounds, the cultural context of food, lifestyle, and healthcare beliefs plays a vital role in how diabetes is managed—and how successful that care can be.

As a registered dietitian and diabetes educator who specializes in culturally inclusive diabetes care, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to meet people where they are. Let’s break down why culture matters in diabetes care—and how acknowledging it can lead to better outcomes, stronger mental health, and long-term success.




The Missing Piece in Diabetes Education

Traditional diabetes education often takes a one-size-fits-all approach: here’s the "correct" meal plan, here’s the "ideal" exercise routine, and here’s how you should feel about it.

But what if your meals are built around rice, beans, injera, tamales, or plantains? What if your traditions celebrate with specific foods, and health advice feels like it’s asking you to abandon your culture?

That’s where culturally inclusive diabetes care makes a huge difference. Research shows that people are more likely to follow through with treatment and nutrition plans when those plans incorporate their cultural preferences and traditions [1]. Cultural competence in care also reduces distrust in the healthcare system, especially in communities that have historically experienced medical bias [2].



Culture, Stress, and Mental Health

Living with diabetes can already feel overwhelming, and when care doesn’t acknowledge your cultural values, it adds another layer of stress.

Mental health matters—a lot. In fact, people with diabetes are 2–3 times more likely to experience depression than those without it [3]. Diabetes distress—a specific emotional burden tied to managing the disease—is also very real. When people feel judged, misunderstood, or overwhelmed, they’re less likely to take care of their health.

That’s why support must be tailored, respectful, and collaborative. When diabetes care acknowledges cultural identity, it not only improves physical outcomes but also protects emotional well-being [4].



Education That Respects Your Roots

Culturally relevant diabetes education doesn’t mean compromising your health. It means finding realistic, balanced ways to enjoy your traditions and still hit your health goals.

It’s not about eliminating foods you love—it’s about understanding portions, balancing meals, and finding swaps that don’t feel like a punishment. It’s about saying, “Yes, you can have pan dulce. Let’s talk about when and how.”

That’s the kind of care that keeps people engaged. It reduces burnout and increases the chance that new habits stick long-term [5].



TL;DR: Why Culture Should Be Part of Every Diabetes Plan

  • Culturally inclusive care leads to higher engagement and better outcomes.

  • Traditional one-size-fits-all advice can create distance and increase distress.

  • Emotional health matters—depression and burnout are common in diabetes.

  • Diabetes education that honors culture and tradition improves success.


You don’t need to give up your favorite foods to take care of your blood sugar—you need a provider who works with you.



Traylor AH, et al. (2010). Patient-provider communication and care outcomes. Women’s Health Issues, 20(4):265–270. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.whi.2010.03.003



 
 
 

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