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Sheridan County

Dining with Diabetes

Published: 2019
By Sheila Friedrich
Sheridan County was one of six counties across Montana to participate in Dining with Diabetes, a pilot study conducted by Montana State University Extension with funding provided by the College of Education, Health and Human Development at MSU. The purpose of the pilot study was to learn how increased knowledge about diabetes and nutrition education can improve the lives of persons with diabetes. Classes were held weekly for four weeks followed by a three-month follow-up class. Each session consisted of a lecture on healthful food choices, managing diabetes and meal planning; food preparation and tasting; and using products such as artificial sweeteners, reduced-fat foods, herbs and spices. Participants in the class either had Type 2 Diabetes or prepared food for individuals with Type 2 Diabetes. The series of classes proved to be beneficial in many ways as reported by program participants: “I was told I have Diabetes and I knew that was bad, but didn’t know where to go for help. I have learned so much about eating to manage my diabetes in this class and my A1C is down to 6.4.” “I have seen a Diabetes Educator in both Billings and Williston. This class provided more in-depth nutrition information. I now understand the role of vitamins, minerals, fiber, carbohydrates and how they can affect blood sugar.” “I learned a lot about making smart food choices, food preparation, reading labels correctly, cooking diabetic-friendly foods and seasoning and spices.” “The meal prep part of the sessions was very helpful. We developed friendships; the sharing was beneficial and I felt increased support from others with Diabetes.”
During the Dining with Diabetes classes, participants prepared healthy diabetic-friendly meals.