About Us
County Impact Statements - Van Buren County
Improving Health With Nutrition Education
"The Dining with Diabetes cooking class has helped me live healthier with
diabetes. As a result of attending this class, I understand how to use the Food
Guide Pyramid to make food choices. I have been able to discontinue daily
insulin injections because my blood glucose is stable. My doctor is amazed at
the difference in my health and is interested in more patients attending classes
like this."
- Ms. C, Dining with Diabetes Participant
Five of the major causes of death in Arkansas are life-style related
illnesses (heart disease, cancer, stroke and diabetes). The cost is estimated at
$3.9 billion yearly. Lifestyle factors such as diets high in fat and low in
vegetables, lack of physical activity and smoking increase the risk of chronic
diseases.
Consumers need non-biased information to help make sound decisions about the
purchase, handling and preparation of food to promote health.
The Extension Service provides this information to Van Buren County
residents. Nutrition education programs provide powerful tools to help residents
prepare safe and nutritious meals. Programs offered include: Dining with
Diabetes, Beef Basic Cooking Class, Rapid Rice Recipes and Adding Spice to Your
Meals.
In FY 2000, the Van Buren County Extension nutrition program received
$1,250.00 in financial support including cash donations and products used in
food demonstrations. This support was used to reach 770 participants with
education programs.
Dining with Diabetes participants learn the importance of daily
blood glucose monitoring.
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Impacts
- In FY 2000, 8,477 people were reached through awareness programs based
on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
- 770 people were reached through food safety awareness programs,
demonstrations or displays.
- 239 consumers participated in educational short courses or meetings
related to sanitation and safe food handling.
- Eighty-one (81) percent of Revitalize Your Recipes for Better Health
participants reported decreased consumption of fats/saturated fats.
- Eighty-seven (87) percent of Food Guide Pyramid participants have
increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grain foods and
calcium-rich foods.
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