How can I manage my diabetes and still enjoy food?

Learning to manage diabetes is important in order to reduce long-term health consequences that include changes in vision, nerve and kidney damage, and heart and circulatory problems. However, for some, following a meal plan is the hardest step in controlling diabetes.

To help individuals who have diabetes or have a family or friend with the disease, K-State Research and Extension in Douglas County is offering a four-session cooking school on “Dining With Diabetes.” Through this course, you will have the opportunity to learn how to reduce the effects of diabetes and still enjoy food.

The goals of this program are to:

• Increase knowledge about healthy foods
• Prepare healthy versions of familiar foods
• Demonstrate new cooking techniques
• Provide taste testing of new recipes
• Provide basic information about diabetes and nutrition
• Provide opportunities for people with diabetes to share and learn from one another.

The series of cooking classes will be offered from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 23, Oct. 30, Nov. 6 and Nov. 13. at the Douglas County Extension Center, 2110 Harper St. The cost is $20 per participant or $30 per couple living in the same household. However, no one will be denied participation due to inability to pay. The registration fee will include course materials, recipes, and food tasting. The deadline for registration is Oct. 17. Space is limited.

Mary L. Meck Higgins, assistant professor in human nutrition from K-State Research and Extension, will share information on diabetes awareness and management during the first session. There also will be food sampling. During the other sessions, I will teach participants how to modify food intake, plan and enjoy meals using a variety of foods, and eat out in restaurants.

To enroll or for more information, call me at 843-7058.