Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
The incidence of Type 2 Diabetes and obesity has been increasing in Iowa and especially South West Iowa. Diabetes Self Management Programs are available in some counties, few address pre-diabetes or risk factors including obesity.

Response:
My Healthy Plate was adapted from the Idaho Plate program to a 3 program series. The program presented the relationship of weight and type 2 diabetes and the risk factors of diabetes. A plate pattern for planning meals was introduced (and people were sent home with a week's worth of divided plates). Participants learned to read food labels and to fit combination dishes to the healthy plate pattern. Each program also contained information on being physically active (aerobic activity, flexibility activities and Strength training activities). Participants received pedometers and stretch bands.

Impact:
Seven particpants and one support person attended the three session course in Union County. Two had been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, the remainder had pre-diabetes or risk factors including obesity to develop diabetes. All completed the course and completed evaluations. Evaluations were on a three point scale: 8/8 Indicated the program gave them good (3- the highest) information about the relationship of diabetes and weight; 3/8 rated a two and the remainder a three about - gave me information about the affects of diabetes on the body; 8/8 rated a three about information received for using the "Healthy Plate" method to plan meals; 6/8 rated information on physical activity a three and 2/8 rated the information a two. All participants rated the presenter a three on"kept my attention and presented information in a way I could understand' Other comments: Two would like a 6 month follow-up or reunion, appreciated handouts and samples, "helped me with my weight and blood pressure", Cost was OK (2)

Contact:
Barb Fuller
105 W Adams, Ste A
Creston, IA 50801
641-782-8426