Worcester County Health Dept. helping the diabetic prosper with cooking lessons
POCOMOKE CITY, Md. – The Health Department wants to help the community during National Diabetes Awareness Month.
The group has been inviting community members to its ‘Cook & Live Well for Your Health’ event. According to the Health Department’s nutritionist, Kelly Williams, diabetes has been an issue in the county.
“Diabetes is growing, and Worcester County has some of the highest rates in Maryland.”
She adds, telling WMDT that the hope is to provide healthy alternatives to people who struggle with the disease.
“During the month of November, it is National Diabetes Awareness Month, and I think the goal for the community demonstrations is to give people the skills to see how easy it is to make meals at home.”
During the lesson, Williams cooked Apple Parfait. She says the meal is a healthy option for breakfast, because it is diabetes-friendly.
Ingredients include diced apples, zero sugar sweetener, high protein granola, and unsweetened yogurt.
One attendee, Judy Bonnell, said she loves watching Williams cook. “I come to these because you learn more. I’ve had diabetes for over 50 years. It’s amazing what all you can do.”
Bonnell added that she wishes more people knew about these offerings from the Health Department.
“It’s very informative, it’s very good to come, and I wish we could put signs out to let people know.”
The department has prioritized going to areas that suffer from low-income, lack of transportation, or the disadvantaged.
Williams said this is an ongoing problem, and the County has emphasized how important it is to stabilize.
“This is a problem that we need to address. People with diabetes are at greater risk for other things like mental health concerns and heart disease,” said Williams. “We want to meet people where they are, and help them live their healthiest lives.”
The next cooking event is on Thursday from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at The Homes at Berlin on Flower Street. The event is open to all residents of the apartments.
