Dining with Diabetes class to begin Feb. 21

Sunday, February 3, 2008
Jackie Baumann (left) with registered dietician Sharon Black

Purdue Extension Service and the Putnam County Hospital have set the dates for their up-coming winter and spring Dining with Diabetes cooking classes.

The 2008 winter classes will be offered on four consecutive Thursday mornings beginning Feb. 21 starting at 10 a.m. The spring series will be taught on four Thursdays beginning April 3 at 5 p.m.

The cooking classes which last approximately two hours explain the role of artificial sweeteners as well as the role of fat and fiber in a healthy diet. The classes are team taught by Putnam County Hospital's registered dietician, Sharon Black and Purdue Extension Educator, Jackie Baumann.

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.

Baumann and Black have team taught Dining with Diabetes in Putnam County since 2005. The upcoming classes will be held in the new board room on the third floor of the hospital.

Persons interested in attending the classes can call or stop in the Putnam County Extension Office for a registration form. Cost of the four week series is $20 per person or $30 for a couple. The fee covers the course notebook, handouts and a light meal at each class.

Participants learn up-to-date information on nutrition, meal planning, exercise and how to understand common diabetes related medical tests. The Dining with Diabetes classes are intended for individuals with diabetes, their family members or caregiver, but are also open to any local resident who would like to learn more about healthy eating and how to best prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 Diabetes.

Anyone wanting to register for Dining with Diabetes can send their name and registration fee to the Putnam County Extension Office at 209 W. Liberty St., Greencastle, 46135. For more information on this or other programs offered by the Purdue Extension Service, call 653-8411.

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