UF Health Diabetes Education and Nutrition Program Helps Patients 'Eat Well to Feel Well'

For the more than 38 million Americans with diabetes, it is among the most difficult diseases to manage. As the sixth-deadliest disease in the U.S., it often has devastating complications such as blindness, kidney failure, amputation, heart disease, and stroke. UF Health’s Diabetes Education and Nutrition Program offers resources and a hands-on approach to help people better manage diabetes and avoid such problems.

The program provides personalized education on healthy eating, exercise, and medication. Through physician referrals, patients receive services such as medical nutrition therapy and diabetes self-management training, which provide the tools needed to keep diabetes under control. Every year, patients come in to discuss their progress, helping ensure they stay on track with their self-maintenance plans.

Medical nutrition therapy includes one-on-one sessions with registered dietitians who help patients set realistic goals and create meal plans that fit their lifestyles, allowing them to enjoy their favorite foods without compromising their health.

The self-management training begins with an individual assessment by a diabetes educator, followed by group classes covering a range of diabetes management topics.

Managing diabetes isn’t a one-size-fits-all proposition. With countless variables influencing treatment, each person’s experience can differ significantly. That’s why the program tailors care and management plans to each patient’s needs.

“Diabetes is one disease where we really want to encourage self-management,” program manager Courtney Puentes said.

The program’s goal is to give participants the knowledge, skills, and resources to seamlessly integrate diabetes management into their lives.

A unique feature of the program is its emphasis on setting S.M.A.R.T. goals — specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely. These goals support long-term success, helping patients approach weight loss or other aspects of diabetes management without feeling frustrated or overwhelmed. This method helps patients build a sustainable lifestyle.

UF Health also partners with the Alachua County Health Department to host a support group on the last Wednesday of every month. Led by a diabetes educator, patients share experiences and gain emotional support.

“Emotional support is just as important as medical support,” Puentes said.

Nutrition plays a vital role in diabetes management. In nutrition education, patients learn about carb counting and how to create healthy eating habits without feeling deprived. The idea is to create realistic meal plans that consider personal tastes and lifestyle, underscoring Puentes’ message: “Eat well to feel well.”

The American Diabetes Association has recognized UF Health’s program for meeting its quality standards.

Fewer than 25% of the 38 million Americans with diabetes have achieved target levels for glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Yet only 5% of Medicare beneficiaries use the education services that could help them.

For those considering the program, Puentes says the UF Health Diabetes Education and Nutrition team is passionate about working with and empowering those with diabetes. A physician’s referral is required to participate, and the team is committed to helping patients view diabetes as something they can confidently manage, fostering a sense of control and a pathway to a happier, healthier life.