Taiwanese consensus statement on the use of diabetes-specific formula: Scientific evidence.

Abstract

Introduction: Medical Nutrition Therapy remains the cornerstone of diabetes management. Clinical evidence shows that early intervention with medical nutrition therapy can significantly improve cardiometabolic markers, thereby delaying or preventing diabetes-related complications. As part of medical nutrition therapy, diabetes-specific formula has proven to be an effective tool in clinical practice and a viable support alternative in special circumstances where consuming whole foods is challenging. However, Taiwan currently lacks consensus on diabetes-specific formula products, and many patients with diabetes, as well as some healthcare professionals, still hold misconceptions about these products.

Methods: To address these needs, the Taiwanese Association of Diabetes Educators and the Diabetes Association of the Republic of China, Taiwan, collaborated to form an expert panel to formulate consensus statements on the appropriate use of diabetes-specific formula.

Results: Following a comprehensive review of international guidelines and clinical evidence, the panel formulated five consensus statements covering indications, clinical benefits, nutritional composition, and practical applications of diabetes-specific formula.

Conclusion: This consensus provides evidence-based recommendations for integrating diabetes-specific formula into individualized diabetes care, particularly in patients with poor glycemic control, malnutrition, sarcopenia, gestational diabetes, or diabetic kidney disease. These statements are tailored to Taiwan's healthcare system but may serve as a reference for other regions.