Dining with Diabetes Series Wraps Up

The Eye Institute (TEI) recently concluded another successful series of the Dining with Diabetes program.

Diabetes is caused by the body’s inability to produce or respond to insulin, which results in abnormal levels of glucose (sugar) in the body. Those who suffer from the disease are at a higher risk for serious eye conditions.

For that reason in 2015, TEI collaborated with Penn State Extension to launch the Dining with Diabetes program, with the goal of teaching participants important aspects of managing their diabetes.

Casey Dascher, RD, LDN, CDE, Diabetes Education Coordinator with Temple University Hospital and Suzanne Weltman, MPA, Nutrition Links Supervisor with Penn State Extension served as class instructors.

“Our goal is really to make sure that we set people up for success,” said Dascher.

Over the course of five weeks, participants learned about healthy meal planning, ways to stay physically active, the importance of regular doctor’s visits and vital numbers to know about their diabetes.

The class recently concluded with a follow-up session after several weeks during which participants had their blood sugar and blood pressure levels checked. They also discussed what the Dining with Diabetes classes have taught them and how they have implemented them into their daily lives.

“I’ve learned so many things from this program like how to watch what I eat and how to manage my diet better to help me stay healthy,” said Evelyn S.

According to some participants, the educational series gave them the wake-up call they needed to take charge of their health.

“What this class really taught me was that there is hope,” Joanne Armstrong said. “I have to stop making excuses and get more active and take responsibility for my health.”

At the end of the class, participants were provided with information about support groups, community classes and additional resources that will help them stay on track.

“With the classes people have support but when the class is over sometimes people fall back into their old habits,” said Dascher. “I want to make sure that people stay on the right track even after the class has ended.”

The Dining with Diabetes program is held at TEI’s Oak Lane campus throughout the year. For more information on the next session, please call 215.276.6070.