Dining with Diabetes

Background

As of 2016, Mississippi was ranked number one in the nation for overall diabetes prevalence. Over 308,000 adults in Mississippi are living with diabetes. Complications include adult blindness, amputations, kidney failure/dialysis, and cardiovascular disease (i.e., heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure). There is a need to equip Mississippians with the knowledge and skills necessary to combat this condition.  Dining with Diabetes provides workshops that do just that.

Workshops

The Dining with Diabetes Program was developed as a four-lesson plan with one optional follow-up lesson. This program was developed by Extension educators for the general public.

Topics include:

1. Living Well with Diabetes
2. Carbohydrates and Sweeteners
3. Fats and Sodium
4. Vitamins, Minerals, and Fiber/Putting it All Together
5. Follow-up (optional)

Objectives

The overarching objective of the program is to empower people with knowledge and strategies so they can manage their diabetes through menu planning, carbohydrate counting, portion control, and label reading. Specifically, participants should:

1. Increase knowledge about healthy foods.
2. Present healthy versions of familiar foods.
3. Demonstrate new cooking techniques.
4. Provide basic information regarding diabetes and nutrition.
5. Provide opportunities for sharing and learning from one another and from diabetes health professionals.

Target Audiences

People who are concerned about diabetes or interested in controlling their blood sugar are encouraged to participate and to bring a family member, friend, caregiver, or other support person.