Diabetes Support Group to Explore Legumes in Mendota Meeting

A diabetes support group is set to convene on January 8, 2024, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the OSF Saint Paul Medical Center in Mendota. The session, titled “Get Back on Track Diabetes Support Group,” aims to provide guidance and community for individuals managing diabetes or caring for someone with the condition.

Led by Susan Glassman, a food and nutrition educator from the University of Illinois Extension, and Jennifer Scully, a clinical dietitian at OSF HealthCare, this month’s topic will focus on “Powering Up with Legumes.” Participants will learn how beans and lentils can be effectively incorporated into a diabetes-friendly meal plan.

The meeting will feature a recipe tasting, allowing attendees to sample various dishes that include legumes, along with other diabetes-friendly snacks. This interactive approach aims to empower participants with practical knowledge and resources to enhance their dietary choices.

Support groups like this one play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community among those living with diabetes. They offer a platform for sharing experiences, discussing management strategies, and receiving emotional support. The upcoming session will be held in Conference Room C at the medical center, located at 1401 E. 12th St. in Mendota.

Those interested in attending can register online at go.illinois.edu/diabetessupport or by calling the University of Illinois Extension at 815-224-0894. For any necessary accommodations, participants are encouraged to contact Glassman via email at [email protected] or by phone at 815-224-0889.

This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of community support in managing chronic conditions like diabetes, underscoring the need for accessible resources and communal engagement in health management.