5-part Dining with Diabetes program to begin on March 6

Do you have type 2 diabetes? Are interested in learning more about obtaining a healthy lifestyle? Would you like to learn more about your disease and how to live well reducing your health risks? If so, Purdue Extension has a program for you.

The Purdue Extension Putnam County office and Putnam County Hospital are partnering to offer Dining with Diabetes sessions beginning Tuesday, March 6 from 6-8 p.m. at Putnam County Hospital. Dining with Diabetes is a series of five sessions, including a two-month follow-up session.

The Dining with Diabetes program is open to those with diabetes, their family members, caretakers and individuals seeking to obtain information about a healthy lifestyle.

The series of five sessions is $20/person or $30/couple. Preregistration and payment is required. Participants may register by completing the Dining with Diabetes registration form located online and in the Purdue Extension Office and paying the registration fee. Participants are encouraged to attend all class sessions.

The educational programs and cooking school will help adults with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar to feel better and reduce risk of health complications. Participants will learn how to prepare meals that are healthy, easy to prepare and taste good. Recipes will be demonstrated, and participants will have the opportunity to taste each one. Participants will also learn up-to-date information on nutrition, meal planning, exercise and how to understand common diabetes-related medical tests. Recipe and handouts will be given to each participant.

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 a healthier and more productive life.

Purdue Extension Putnam County is currently recruiting participants for this program. If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, or know someone and are part of the support system for an individual and are interested in being a part of this program, call Purdue Extension office at 653-8411.

Registration and program fee may be sent to: 12 Central Square, Greencastle, IN 46135 by Feb. 28. The $20 program fee includes educational classes, program materials and food sampling. Dining with Diabetes is offered statewide and is sponsored by Purdue Extension.