Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support

Whether you are newly diagnosed with Type-1 or Type-2 diabetes or have had diabetes for decades, learning to control it is the key to long-term health and wellness. The White-Wilson Medical Center Diabetes and Nutritional Care Clinic is here to help you help you understand how you can best manage your diabetes and thrive.

We offer education opportunities tailored to your individual needs and lifestyle. These classes combine one-on-one sessions with a registered dietitian/certified diabetic educator along with small group sessions. Sessions are held each week at White-Wilson Medical Center in Fort Walton Beach and help participants better understand how they can self- manage their diabetes through engagement and lifestyle changes.

Topics will include:

• Diabetes Management Form
• Weight loss and management
• Goal Setting
• Long term effects and potential complications
• Understanding nutritional guidelines
• Medication Management
• Problem solving and healthy coping

Nutritional Therapy For Obesity

In the US, it is estimated that 60 percent of those over the age of 20 are considered overweight or obese. Though there are a variety of causes, being overweight or obese can have life-threatening health effects. These may include hypertension, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and even some forms of cancer.

Learning to manage your weight is an important step to help improve quality of life and overall health and wellness. Classes offered through White-Wilson Medical Center's Diabetes and Nutritional Care Clinic include both Medical Nutritional Therapy as well as Intensive Behavioral Therapy tracks. These programs focus not only on weight-loss, but healthy approaches to lifestyle changes, weight loss maintenance, illness prevention and medication management.

Topics will include:

• Personalized meal planning and preparation
• Disease management and prevention
• Lifestyle change
• Healthy coping skills
• Understanding nutritional guidelines
• Goal setting
• Ongoing support

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Who is eligible for these classes?
  • Those with a diagnosis of diabetes, renal disease or a BMI greater than 30
• Why are group classes so important?
  • Group classes are a way for participants to connect, learn together and discuss best practices. Research has proven that when participants learn in a group setting, they have increased participation and better outcomes.
• What are the long-term effects of uncontrolled diabetes?
  • Those with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease and complications. By learning to manage your diabetes, you can drastically reduce your risk for developing further complications and in many cases extend your life expectancy.
• I am on medication, isn't that enough?
  • Medications are not cure-alls. They work best when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Our classes focus on managing both medication and all lifestyle.
• I am nervous about attending, will I be uncomfortable?
  • We understand that some participants may be nervous about taking the first steps to better understand and manage their nutrition. That is why we create a comfortable, inclusive and even fun environment. Participants are encouraged to learn together and to share tips that they have found work for them.
• Will I have to give up my favorite foods?
  • We believe that learning about foods and how they affect your body is most important. You'll learn how a realistic eating plan can even include your favorite foods.
• How much will the classes cost?
  • These classes are designed to be fully covered by most insurance plans with a physician referral. To discuss your specific diagnosis and insurance coverage, just call or email our team.
• How can I sign up?
  • You can enroll by calling 850-863-6600 or emailing nutrition@white-wilson.com