One of the most important steps people with diabetes can take is to learn as much as possible about the disease. By knowing how to better manage the condition, individuals can feel better, have more energy, and decrease their chances of complications such as a heart attack or stroke.

At a recent series of classes led by LincolnHealth diabetes educators and registered dieticians, participants learned about the disease, treatment options and medications, how to prevent problems caused by diabetes, nutrition, and more. Participants described the series as being “very informative,” “encouraging,” and “just what they needed.”

“The classes were excellent. They made me realize that I need to make a few changes so I hopefully won’t need to use insulin in the future,” explained one happy participant. “I already eat well, but I eat too much. The class reminded me of the portion sizes I should be eating for each type of food,” she added.

“Healthy eating is essential to healthy living, but for those with diabetes, there are more factors to consider,” said LincolnHealth Clinical Dietitian Elisabeth Cardali. “Eating healthy foods such as lean meats, vegetables, fruit, and yogurt are important to a healthy diet, but are only part of the focus. Other considerations include correct portion sizes, carbohydrate counting, well-balanced meals, and proper proportions of food in relation to diabetes medications, especially insulin,” she explained.

More than 2,000 individuals in Lincoln County have been diagnosed with diabetes, and each person’s situation is slightly different. The class is well organized and provides a lot of information, but there is plenty of time for participants to ask questions about their particular case.

“I came away from the class with a lot more knowledge and answers to questions that I wouldn’t have known to ask without it,” a gentleman stated. “I really enjoyed learning the biology behind what is going on. I didn’t understand how everything reacted together,” he noted.

The series of classes will take place again in June and September. Participants are encouraged to attend all three classes in the series as each class covers different topics. The June series will take place at the Waldoboro Broad Bay Congregational Church on June 7 and 14 from 4-6 p.m. and on June 21 from 4-5:30 p.m. The September series will take place at the St. Philip’s Church in Wiscasset on September 6 and 13 from 4-6 p.m. and on September 20 from 4-5:30 p.m.

Anyone with diabetes who wants to learn more about diabetes self-management and available resources is welcome to join. No physician referral is needed. Participants are welcome to bring a guest with them if they choose.

For more information or to reserve your spot, please contact Marilyn Finch, RN, Certified Diabetes Educator, at (207) 563-4442. Space is limited.