Diabetes is sometimes referred to as the “Silent Killer” because the symptoms are not always recognized. The American Diabetic Association estimates 30 million people have type 2 diabetes with seven million of those undiagnosed.

In an effort to assist the clients at Open Hands Food Pantry in managing their diabetes with proper nutrition and exercise the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Assistant in Anderson County KY provided a Living with Diabetes Workshop. The workshop included helpful ideas on food choices that would assist in controlling blood sugar a well as helping to understand the importance of physical activity. The participants learned easy and safe ways to add physical activity to their daily life. One of the simple ideas offered was using canned goods for resistance which would add strength training to their exercise.

The results from this class showed a 50% improvement in the amount of fruits and orange and red vegetables, as well as a 63% increase in the amount of dark green vegetables. There was also an 88% increase in the time spent exercising with a 63% increase in the amount of strength training they were doing.

In a survey of the class participants, one of the members said the class had changed her outlook on what she should be doing to help control her diabetes. Controlling diet and exercise will help this group of people to live a healthier life and to avoid long term health complications.