If you are struggling with the ongoing symptoms of diabetes and looking to take control of your health for the new year, Tanner Health System’s Get Healthy, Live Well has a class for you.
Get Healthy, Live Well is offering a free, six-session Living Well With Diabetes workshop to help participants manage diabetes. Developed at Stanford University, Living Well with Diabetes teaches participants what diabetes means for their bodies. Group support and camaraderie are also important parts of the program.
The classes explore how to live a healthy and active lifestyle. Other topics covered include exercise, techniques to deal with symptoms, appropriate use of medications and working more effectively with healthcare providers. Participants make weekly action plans, share experiences and help each other solve problems they encounter while carrying out their self-management plans.
A study found that people who participated in the Living Well With Diabetes program reduced their A1C levels — the measure of a person's average blood glucose level over the last two to three months. The study also found that participants reduced their rates of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, or high and low blood sugar.
Other results include a reduction of medication, enhanced physical fitness and weight loss. For people with type 2 diabetes, losing just 10 percent of their body weight can cut blood sugar levels by half. Participants also had significant improvements in healthy eating, reading food labels, depression and communicating with physicians.
Individuals who have received a clinical diagnosis of diabetes are encouraged to attend one of the Living Well With Diabetes classes starting in January or February.
Jan. 7 – Classes will be held Mondays from 5 to 7 p.m. at City Station at 2115 Maple Street in Carrollton.
Jan. 10 – Classes will be held Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon at the Villa Rica Public Library at 869 Dallas Highway.
Feb. 4 – Classes will be held Mondays from 5 to 7 p.m. at Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica at 601 Dallas Highway.
Feb. 6 – Classes will be held Wednesdays from 2 to 4 p.m. at Tanner on Robinson at 115 Robinson Avenue in Carrollton.
Class size is limited, so register early. Register online at tanner.org/livingwell for an upcoming class or call 770-214-CARE.