Dining With Diabetes

Diabetes is a common, serious, and costly disease in West Virginia. In 1999, over 87,000 persons had diagnosed diabetes and experts estimate this number represents only half of those with this devastating disease. Diabetes affects over 25% of West Virginians by the time they reach 65 years of age. This is the bad news. There is now good news for West Virginians with diabetes. Convincing studies show that complications of diabetes, such as blindness, kidney failure, and amputations can probably be delayed or even prevented by careful control of blood sugar.	New Curriculum Coming in 2009 A new Dining with Diabetes curriculum is on the way! What is Dining with Diabetes? A program designed for people with diabetes and their family members. A series of three classes that includes learning, demonstrations, and tasting of healthy foods. A grant-funded program offered free to people with diabetes in West Virginia Who can participate? People with diabetes and their family members, caregivers, and support persons can enroll in Dining with Diabetes. Attendance is limited to 50 persons at each school. Who are the instructors? Classes are taught by Extension Educators and diabetes health professionals, such as Registered Dietitians and Certified Diabetes Educators. How can I enroll? There is no charge to enroll, however you must plan to attend all three sessions and a "Class Reunion" when you enroll. Dining with Diabetes programs are organized by county Extension Offices. Contact your Extension office to find out when the next Dining with Diabetes class will be offered in your area.
Following a careful meal plan is the first step in controlling blood sugar. This is also the hardest step in diabetes control. Dining with Diabetes helps by teaching people with diabetes to reduce sugar, salt, and fat in foods without giving up good taste.	Where are classes held? Classes are held in locations that are accessible and convenient in each county. Churches, schools, vocational-technical centers, and hospitals have been hosts to Dining with Diabetes. When are the classes? Extension Educators try to schedule classes at the best times for people in their county. Classes are usually held in spring or fall. The day of the week and the time of day may vary from county to county. Observers are always welcome at Dining with Diabetes programs. Please contact your county Extension office to inquire about locations, times, and dates.

For more information, contact:

Karen Newton
or mail, phone or fax us at:
4-H and Youth, Family, and Adult Development, West Virginia University
Room 609 Knapp Hall, P.O. Box 6031, Morgantown, WV 26506-6031
(304) 293-2694/FAX 293-7599

---

Last modified Janaury 21, 2003
Comments to:Mary Bartron