Healthy Boiler program focuses on taking control of Type 2 diabetes, pre-diabetes

The Center for Healthy Living's "Taking Control of Your Diabetes” program ties into the Healthy Boiler Program’s Physical Health pillar.

As part of the Healthy Boiler Program’s Physical Health pillar, the Center for Healthy Living (CHL) on Purdue's West Lafayette campus returns with its eight-week diabetes program titled "Taking Control of Your Diabetes.”

Designed for those living with Type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes, the program currently has a waiting list for its 2020 offerings. Those interested can sign up to be placed on the waiting list via the Healthy Boiler Portal. Registration link can be found under the “Engage” tab, “Wellness Events” on the portal’s homepage. Healthy Boiler workshops are free to all benefits-eligible faculty and staff and dependents covered on a Purdue medical plan.

The program will be co-led by Cheryl Laszynski, registered nurse health coach at CHL, and Megan Shidler, registered dietitian at CHL. The eight-week program will cover 16 sessions -- two per class meeting -- on a variety of topics related to Type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes to help participants better manage their condition and live healthier lives. Participants will also have access to expert services of the center’s health care professionals, including:

• A registered nurse who is a health and wellness coach.
• A pharmacist who is specially trained in medication therapy management.
• A registered dietitian who will assist with individualized meal planning.

Eligible participants will receive a glucose meter and test strips to check their blood glucose levels. Those on the waiting list who are interested in the test strips and glucose meter will be contacted by a CHL health coach to make those accommodations until another class opens up.

“This program sets out to provide participants with the information, tools and resources to take control of their diabetes, just as its name implies,” Laszynski said. “Managing Type 2 diabetes is impacted by many moving parts. We will examine the role nutrition, exercise, sleep and stress management can have on blood glucose levels.”

Individuals living with Type 1 diabetes are able to meet monthly with a CHL health coach but are not required to participate in the eight-week “Taking Control of Your Diabetes” program to take advantage of the test strips and blood sugar meter opportunity.

Questions regarding the program and test strips and blood sugar meter can be directed to the CHL at 765-494-0111.