Texas Health Stephenville

Interested in signing up for an upcoming education class or support group? Call 254-552-3103 today to get started. d 4 TexasHealth.org iabetes is a metabolic disorder that develops when the body cannot properly process glucose. The condition can present in many forms, including: • Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not make insulin, a hormone that helps glucose enter cells. It was previously known as juvenile diabetes because it is often diagnosed in children. • In Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas may still make insulin, but the cells may not respond to insulin the way they should. Risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include family history of diabetes, lack of physical activity, being overweight and being older than 40. Making Life With Diabetes If you've recently been diagnosed with diabetes, you might not know where to start. The Center for Diabetes Education at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Stephenville has specialists to answer your questions and help you find your way. • Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and can increase a woman's risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. • Prediabetes is a condition that occurs before Type 2 diabetes when blood sugar levels are above the normal range but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. When caught early, this condition can be reversed through a balanced diet and regular exercise. Currently, 8.3 percent of Americans deal with diabetes every day, according to the American Diabetes Association. When left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to a variety of health problems, including nerve damage, blindness, and increased risk of heart disease and stroke. SUPPORT DESIGNED WITH YOU IN MIND At The Center for Diabetes Education, patients coping with different forms of diabetes can meet with specialists to discuss their health, sign up for group classes and instruction on an individual basis, or learn more about medical nutrition therapy. Flexible scheduling is available to accommodate patients. "Diabetes support groups and education classes are critical to helping patients and their families manage their conditions," says Ellen Wells, clinical dietitian and diabetes educator at Texas Health Stephenville. "Staff cover a wide range of issues — from understanding what diabetes is to which foods to eat — that are best learned and discussed in a supportive group. Topics addressed among other things, include healthy eating, staying active, monitoring blood sugar levels and taking medication." Nationally Recognized The Center for Diabetes Education at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Stephenville is recognized by the American Diabetes Association. "This recognition means our program meets national standards for diabetes self-management education and provides high-quality diabetes education to participants," says Ellen Wells, clinical dietitian and diabetes educator at Texas Health Stephenville. "The Center for Diabetes Education is home to knowledgeable educators with years of experience in diabetes care." Manageable

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