Registration open for fall 2011 'Dining with Diabetes' class

Now is the time to register for the fall series of Dining with Diabetes.

The four-week cooking class is offered jointly by the Purdue Extension Service and the Putnam County Hospital.

The fall class which is limited to 14 participants will be offered from 5:30 to 8 p.m. each Thursday in October, beginning on Oct. 6. Registration will be accepted until Oct. 1 or when class is full.

The classes which are taught by Purdue Extension Educator, Jackie Baumann, and Putnam County Hospital's registered dietician, Sharon Black, are intended for individuals with diabetes, their family members, or caretakers, but are also open to any local residents who would like to learn more about healthy eating and how to eat to avoid or delay the onset of Type 2 Diabetes.

Diabetes is a serious and costly disease, but research has shown that those who learn to manage their blood glucose (sugar) levels, eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly can lower their risks of complications and lead healthier and more productive lives.

Research actually shows that it is possible to prevent or at least delay the onset of Type 2 Diabetes. By making better food and cooking choices and becoming more active, you have a fighting chance against getting this serious illness which is claiming more people each year.

Topics covered during the four week series of workshops include understanding more about diabetes and carbohydrates; how to cook with less fat and sodium; understanding appropriate portion sizes and tasty ways to include more fruits and vegetables as well as cooking with sugar substitutes and how to include desserts and other favorite foods in a healthy diet.

The cost of the class is $25 for an individual or $35 for a couple who share the same materials. Participants receive a notebook, weekly handouts and get to sample recipes that are prepared each week.

Individuals who attend the classes will learn how to prepare meals that are healthy, easy to prepare and taste good. They will also learn to modify their own recipes and menus for a healthier diet.

For more information or to register for the fall 2011 classes, call or stop in the Putnam County Office of the Purdue Extension Service at 653-8411 in the Courthouse Annex.

Visit our website at www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or you can contact the local Purdue Extension Office by calling 653-8411 for more information regarding this week's column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events.

It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs. While many publications are free, some do have a fee.

Upcoming Events

Sept. 12 -- Extension Homemakers Leader Lesson "Recess Time" 7 p.m. at Extension Office

Sept. 14 -- Week 3 of Walking Wednesday 5 p.m. Start in front of old Hibbitt Sports Store (in front of Wal-Mart)

Sept. 21 -- Week 4 of Walking Wednesdays 5 p.m. Start at Deer Meadow School

Sept. 28 -- Week 5 of Walking Wednesdays 5 p.m. Start at Tzouanakis Intermediate School

Sept. 29 -- Putnam County Extension Homemakers Achievement Night 6:30 p.m. at the Fairgrounds

Oct. 4 -- Extension Homemaker Leader Lesson "The Family Cost of Caregiving" 7 p.m. at the Extension Office

Oct. 5 -- Week 6 of Walking Wednesdays 5 p.m. DePauw Nature Park -- start at south end of parking lot

Oct. 6 -- First class of Fall Dining with Diabetes Cooking Classes (pre-registration required)