According to the Trust for America’s Health 2020 data, 36.6% of adults in Kentucky are obese and 13.1% of adults have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in Kentucky. Health facts states that 30% of adults in Powell County have diabetes ranking it one of the highest in the state. Therefore, diabetes management education is critical for community health.

The Powell County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent has been facilitating the Dining with Diabetes program twice per year since 2019. Participants are encouraged to bring family members or caretakers to attend each session with them for support and to engage the whole household. 

Dining with Diabetes is a Kansas State Research and Extension health and wellness program that consist of a series of four classes that includes learning, demonstrations, physical activity and tasting healthy foods. The program's focus is to help individuals learn strategies to lessen the health risks of diabetes.

The program objectives are:

• Increase knowledge about healthy foods
• Present healthy versions of familiar foods and taste testing of recipes
• Demonstrate new cooking techniques
• Provide basic information regarding diabetes and nutrition
• Provide opportunities for sharing and learning from one another and from diabetes health professionals

Classes consist of a presentation on diabetes self-care or healthful food choices, presentations on tasty, healthy familiar foods, sampling foods, and demonstrations of cooking techniques using artificial sweeteners, reduced-fat foods, herbs, and spices. Participants set weekly SMART goals to work toward building healthier habits. 

As a result of the program, 50% reported an increase in physical activity. Over 95% reported cooking more meals at home and 90% utilize portion control as one way to manage diabetes. Finally, 100% felt confident they could make a positive difference in diabetes control and care for themselves or those they care for. 

One participant shared they learned how important it was to read and compare food labels.  Also, learning portion control and what a portion looks like compared to everyday servings has been critical to their success and lowered A1c of 5.6.