The Outpatient Nutrition & Diabetes Education Center is dedicated to providing up-to-date information on nutrition and diabetes self-management skills. The team of registered and licensed dieticians and registered nurse offers education programs for diabetes, nutrition and diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes). Their focus is on providing participants the knowledge, skills and tools needed to live a healthier life. All instructors are also Certified Diabetes Educators.

For more information, please call (919) 470-6505.

Nutrition Education Program

This program provides nutrition information for any medical condition that may be affected by diet. Learn how to reduce cholesterol, control hypertension, lose weight or better control other medical conditions through healthy eating and lifestyle. Setting goals and making plans for healthy habits is also included.

Education is provided by registered and licensed dietitians. Individual and group sessions are available.

Diabetes Education Program

Individual sessions and group classes are offered for both newly diagnosed patients and whose who have had diabetes for many years. While some participants simply need a refresher, other participants may benefit from a series of classes. Classes are offered both days and evenings.

The comprehensive program, which includes 10 hours of education on nutrition and diabetes self-management skills, is certified by the American Diabetes Association. All instructors are Certified Diabetes Educators.

FAQs

Why is good diabetes control important?

Good diabetes control means having good blood sugar numbers most of the time. When diabetes is in good control, you will feel good, have better energy and feel healthy and prevent or delay complications.

Good diabetes control is important because eye, kidney, feet and nerve damage, heart disease and strokes can develop when blood sugars have been high for months or years. Good blood sugar control can help prevent these problems or help to keep these problems from getting worse.

What does behavior change mean?

Behavior change is a process. It doesn’t happen overnight. Changing lifestyle habits takes time and starts with a plan.

• Setting priorities
• Working on a few changes at a time
• Deciding what works best for each individual
• Breaking a big plan down into small steps
• Setting achievable goals
• Periodically re-evaluating the plan

What is diabetes during pregnancy?

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy. Healthy eating and exercise often keep the mother’s blood sugar numbers at a good level, which is important for both mother and baby’s health. Sometimes insulin is also needed.

Instruction includes:

• Gestational diabetes overview
• Nutrition and an individualized meal plan
• How and when to test blood sugars
• How to take insulin (if needed)
• The importance of healthy habits after pregnancy

We also assist mothers who have diabetes before pregnancy. Instructors are registered and licensed dietitians, and registered nurse. All are Certified Diabetes Educators.