According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of Americans with diabetes has increased from 5.6 million in 1980 to 18.8 million in 2010.The prevalence of diabetes among North Dakota adults has increased from 3.5 percent in 1990 to 7.5 percent (37,000 adults) in 2009.

The North Dakota State University Extension Service will offer classes in 16 counties to help those with diabetes control the disease through a healthful diet and lifestyle choices. Dining With Diabetes is a series of four classes that will be offered on Nov. 8, 15, 22 and 29.

The classes will be held in Grant, Logan, Stutsman, Ransom, Grand Forks, LaMoure, McKenzie, Dunn, Williams, Burleigh, Burke, Cass, Stark, Billings, Mountrail and Morton counties.

“Participants will learn about making good food choices, portion control, meal planning, healthy food preparation methods and how to read food nutrition labels,” says Abby Gold, NDSU Extension Service nutrition and wellness specialist. “They will taste test recipes that are healthy versions of familiar foods, plus learn about the importance of physical activity in controlling diabetes and some exercises they can use.”

The classes will be conducted in the counties through the Interactive Video Network and led by Extension Service agents, certified diabetes educators and registered dietitians.

For more information, contact the NDSU Extension Service office in your county.

NDSU Agriculture Communication - Oct. 13, 2011