The UT-TSU Extension Claiborne County is offering Dining with Diabetes classes on April 12, 19, 26 and May 3. The four consecutive classes will be held at the Tazewell Senior Citizens Center on Jaycee Lane in Tazewell, beginning at 6 p.m. and lasting approximately 90 minutes to two hours. Dining with Diabetes is open to anyone with diabetes, family members of diabetics or anyone at risk for diabetes.

You will learn how to prepare quick and healthy meals that taste good. Recipes will be demonstrated and participants will have the opportunity to taste each one. There is a small charge of $10 to cover the cost of food that will be demonstrated. If couples wish to attend the cost will be $15 for both.

Participants will gain knowledge to analyze recipes to determine their nutritional value; how to identify and monitor the amount of carbohydrates, sodium and fat eaten; how to modify favorite recipes to reduce refined carbohydrates, sodium and saturated fat; how to identify sources of “healthy” fats in food such as, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fat including food sources of omega 3 fatty acids; how to identify hidden sources of trans fat in food and how to use artificial sweeteners. Recipe booklets and handouts will be given to each participant.

Diabetes is a very serious and costly disease. Research has shown that those who learn to manage their blood sugar levels; eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly can lower their risk of complications. Diabetics can lead a healthy and productive life when they manage their disease.

For registration information contact UT –TSU Extension Claiborne County Office at 423-626-3742 by April 10. Class size is limited.

This workshop and all programs offered by Extension are open to anyone who would like to participate. If you would like to learn more about how UT-TSU Extension serves Claiborne County you can visit the office, call us at 423-626-3742, visit our website at claiborne.tennessee.edu, like us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/extensionclaiborne), or follow us on Twitter @ClaiborneExt.