Diabetes Education
The St. Joseph Diabetes Education Program is recognized by the American Diabetes Association.
To register for Diabetes Education classes, call 260-425-3393.
Morning, afternoon and evening classes are offered at St. Joseph Hospital and Dupont Hospital. Individual classes can also be arranged to accommodate busy schedules.
What will be covered in diabetes education classes?
- Definition of the disease
- Treatment plans
- High and low blood sugar reactions
- Meal planning that includes your favorite foods and grocery shopping
- Blood sugar testing
- General healthcare and complications
- Resources
- Restaurant eating
- Eating during illness and exercise
- Medical treatments for diabetes care
- Oral antidiabetic agents
- Insulin preparation
- Over-the-counter medications and drug interactions
Diabetes Management
Whether you have just been diagnosed with diabetes and you're not sure how to manage it, or you've had it for many years and just need a refresher, there is no doubt you need to control your blood glucose levels each day to ensure a long, healthy life.
The specially trained and experienced registered nurses and dietitians and pharmacists in the Diabetes Education programs at St. Joseph and Dupont hospitals can teach you the necessary
techniques to help you safely manage your diabetes. They can also answer any questions you may have, such as:
- How does the food I eat affect my blood sugar level?
- How do I know how much medication I should take each time I eat?
- How many calories should I eat each day?
- How often should I check my blood sugar level?
- What is my target range?
Tips to controlling blood glucose levels
- Eat at least three meals each day about four to five hours apart. A small snack at bedtime may also help.
- Eat at the same time each day.
- Do not skip meals.
- Eat the right amount of food-not too much and not too little.
- Pay close attention to the amount of carbohydrates you eat since they significantly affect blood glucose levels.