The West Virginia University Cabell County Extension Service is offering a new class called Dining with Diabetes.

The first class takes place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6. Registration will take place at 6 p.m. before the first class.

It's all happening at Bethesda United Methodist Church in Ona.

The program will run once a week for four weeks, with a three-month follow up class. It is open to those with diabetes and their family members. The classes are free, but space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Participants must attend all class sessions.

Participants will learn how to prepare meals that are healthy, easy to prepare and that taste good. Recipes will be demonstrated and participants will have the opportunity to taste each one. Participants also will learn information on nutrition, meal planning, exercise and how to understand common diabetes-related medical tests. Each participant will receive recipes and handouts.

Diabetes is a very serious disease, but research has shown that those who learn to manage their blood glucose levels, eat a healthy, and exercise regularly can lower their risks of complications and lead a healthier and more productive life.

Dining with Diabetes, an ongoing research study offered statewide, is sponsored by the West Virginia University Extension Service. Partial funding is provided by the West Virginia Diabetes Prevention and Control Program, Bureau for Public Health, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). For further information contact Brenda Porter, Cabell County Extension Agent or Cindy Fitch, Extension Specialist, 605 Knapp Hall, Morgantown, WV 26506.

Registration for this program can be made by calling West Virginia University Cabell County Extension Office at 304-743-7131 by Friday, July 31.

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