It can be done as either a fasting or a random blood glucose, which is taken at any time without regard to food. There are about 800,000 new cases per year. It is seen to be more common with Hispanics, American Indian, and African-American populations. The Diabetes Foundation is actively looking for a cure, but none exists so far. The first thing I would ask is what kind of support does this person have in determining what is appropriate to eat.
Food is one part of the treatment for diabetes.
Medication and exercise are the other part of the treatment. We can tell how well the diabetes is being managed by following the blood glucose test at home. Well she just eats. No exercise but takes medicine. Also, working with a dietician or diabetes educator in terms of planning meals may be helpful.