Dr. Tina Marcantel works with type 2 diabetes patients to give them education and medical guidance to help them control their symptoms. Dr. Marcantel is a naturopathic physician practicing in Gilbert, Arizona, and serving Mesa, Chandler, Tempe, Scottsdale, Queen Creek, Apache Junction, and the greater Phoenix area.
Teaching on the pathophysiology of the disease process is an important part of the treatment process.
Dr. Marcantel will use visual aids (posters) to demonstrate how the disease affects the individual at the cellular level and the effect of consistent elevated sugar levels on the eyes, kidneys, blood vessels, heart, and other body systems. An explanation will be given of why the cell is not efficient to produce energy (insulin resistant) and why refined carbohydrates and sugar actually damage the body. The knowledge of the progression of the complications of diabetes (for example: blindness, kidney disease, elevated cholesterol, and hypertension, stroke, and heart disease) will motivate and empower the individual on his or her way to lifestyle changes.
Dr. Marcantel stresses with her patients that this is an active, not passive, program that she offers. Her goal is to see the patients empowered with knowledge of the disease process and involved with the doctor in their healing process by diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
The second visit will include an evaluation of the individual’s diet diary and blood sugar diary for the previous week. Next an individualized meal plan will be given to the patient with a thorough explanation of how specific foods affect blood sugar levels. Subsequent visits are designed to provide accountability and regular monitoring of the patient’s progress. Learn more about Dr. Marcantel’s program.
Dr. Marcantel says that she follows the type of diet she prescribes for her patients so she can experience what her patients eat daily. More importantly, she does it for her own health. “I am not a diabetic myself,” she says, “but I believe anyone living in the U.S. eating the standard American diet of fast foods and refined carbohydrates can potentially become a type 2 diabetic.”
Frequent trips to the grocery stores in search of healthful foods is a part of Dr. Marcantel’s routine. “I experiment with foods weekly to try new and delicious recipes for my diabetic patients. We need to eat well the rest of our lives so I believe in making eating a pleasurable and interesting experience!”
Ready to make your appointment and get started on the road to a healthier lifestyle? Click on “Contact Us” for contact information, directions to our office, or contact forms to send us a message. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Return from “Type 2 Diabetes Mesa” to Diabetes Central