Live Well with Diabetes
Diabetes Self-Management Education Classes
Managing diabetes involves so much more than simply taking a pill. Our self-management classes explain how diabetes affects the body and what behavior and lifestyle changes can help manage the condition. Health educators who specialize in diabetes teach what diabetes is, how to monitor blood glucose, proper nutrition, exercise, medications, goal setting and stress management. Classes are offered as one full day or a series of four weekly sessions, and are taught in English or Spanish, face to face and online.
Class Topics
- What is diabetes? - This topic would cover the basics of diabetes, including its types (Type 1, Type 2,
gestational diabetes), causes, symptoms, and how it affects the body's ability to regulate blood sugar
levels. - Blood glucose monitoring - This topic involves teaching individuals how to measure their blood glucose
levels using tools like glucometers. It covers the importance of monitoring, understanding target ranges, and how to interpret the results. - Carbohydrate counting - Carbohydrate counting is a crucial skill for people with diabetes, especially for
those who use insulin. This topic involves understanding how carbohydrates impact blood sugar levels,
how to estimate carbohydrate content in meals, and how insulin doses are calculated based on carb
intake. - Meal planning - Meal planning involves creating balanced and nutritious meals that help manage blood
sugar levels. This topic covers portion control, selecting healthy food choices, distributing carbohydrates throughout the day, and managing protein and fats. - How to read food labels - Reading food labels is essential for making informed dietary choices. This topic teaches individuals how to interpret nutritional information on food labels, especially focusing on
carbohydrates and sugars - Medication and insulin administration - This topic covers various diabetes medications, including insulin. It educates individuals about the different types of insulin, how to administer injections or use insulin pumps, and the importance of adhering to prescribed medication regimens
- Preventing diabetes complications - Diabetes can lead to various complications if not managed properly. This topic discusses potential complications, such as neuropathy, retinopathy, kidney problems, and cardiovascular issues. It emphasizes the importance of blood sugar control and a healthy lifestyle to minimize these risks.
- Exercise - Regular physical activity is beneficial for managing diabetes. This topic covers the positive
effects of exercise on blood sugar regulation, cardiovascular health, and overall well-being. It also
discusses how to plan safe and effective exercise routines
Follow-up support
After class, participants are scheduled for a four and eight months follow up visit to assess progress and provide ongoing support along a journey to improved health.
Personal training included
After completing this class, you will be eligible to enroll in a free 12-week exercise program with a certified strength and conditioning specialist. Your trainer will conduct an individualized fitness assessment and tailor an exercise program specific to your goals. Learn more.
Class Locations
Alice
CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital - Alice
2500 E. Main St.
Alice, TX 78332
361.661.8813
Corpus Christi
Amistad Community Health Center
1533 S. Brownlee Blvd.
Corpus Christi, TX 78404
361.886.3014
Coastal Bend Wellness Foundation Community Health Center
2882 Holly Rd.
Corpus Christi, TX 78415
361.902.6230
Hector P. Garcia Memorial Family Health Center
2606 Hospital Blvd.
Corpus Christi, TX 78405
361.902.6230
Christus Spohn Cancer Center
1415 Santa Fe
Corpus Christi, TX 78404
361.861.9764
Cuero
First Presbyterian Church
302 McLeod St.
Cuero, TX 77944
361.575.0478
Edna
Jackson County Hospital District
1013 South Wells Street
Edna, TX 77957
361.592.0478
Falfurrias
Ed Rachal Memorial Library
203 S Calixto Mora Ave
Falfurrias, TX 78355
361.667.3350
Hebronville
Jim Hogg Indigent Program
201 N. Oak St
Hebronville, TX 78361
361.667.3350
Kenedy
Otto Kaiser Memorial Hospital
3349 S. Hwy 181, Suite 5
Kenedy, TX 78119
361.661.8813
Kingsville
Judge Pete DeLaGarza Courthouse Annex
100 West King Ave
Kingsville, TX 78363
361.592.3590
Lake Jackson
CHI St. Luke's Health Brazosport
100 Medical Drive
Lake Jackson, TX
Healthy Communities Annex Building
979.285.1990
Laredo
Holding Institute Community Center
1102 Santa Maria Ave.
Laredo, TX
956.718.3002
Victoria
Community Action Committee of Victoria
4007 Halsey
Victoria, TX 77901
361.575.0478
Zapata
Zapata Family Medical Clinic
801 US 83 Highway
Zapata, TX 78076
956.643.5134
To Register
Please call 866-524-1408 or register online.
Pre-registration for class is recommended, please call the Toll-free Phone Number: 1-866-524-1408 to schedule an appointment
Health Champions
Some participants of our Diabetes Education Program have shown exceptional results in their blood sugar levels by applying what they have learned in our classes to their everyday lives. Read how these health champions have made their lives better by taking control of their diabetes.