JCH&L Offers Next Session of Smart Moves

Lifestyle change program helps participants learn to live healthy

FAIRBURY — The fifth session of a successful lifestyle change program is being offered beginning in September at Jefferson Community Health & Life in Fairbury. The year-long program is designed for those who are at risk for diabetes and want to change their lifestyle to avoid getting diabetes. A free no-obligation introductory class will be held at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 30. To sign up for this session, call Lisa Edeal RD, LMNT, at 402-729-6846.

Lifestyle coaches who lead the program are Jill Duis RN, certified diabetes educator; JCH&L Dietitian Lisa Edeal RD, LMNT; and Craig Bontrager, director of JCH&L Burkley Fitness Center.

“This program has been successful in helping participants to make lifestyle changes which positively impact their health,” Edeal said.

Studies show that diabetes can be prevented. Diabetes risk can be lowered by losing weight, eating healthy, exercising regularly, and taking part in a lifestyle change program, such as Smart Moves. Smart Moves is a program of the National Diabetes Prevention Program. JCH&L is participating with the support of Public Health Solutions District Health Department.

For the first part of the program, participants meet in a small-group setting weekly for one-hour presentations. For the second portion of the program, participants will meet monthly.

The program provides lifestyle coaching and group support, promotes healthier eating and weight loss, explores ways to be physically active, creates strategies to overcome barriers, and teaches participants how to apply coping skills to stay successful.

The cost of the program is $150 for the full year. This fee includes not only the program, but also a six-month membership to the JCH&L Burkley Fitness Center (a $200 value.) Financial assistance may be available for those who meet eligibility criteria.

Anyone interested in the session is encouraged to attend the free no-obligation introductory class. Class registration is needed by Sept. 20. Call Lisa Edeal RD, LMNT, at (402) 729-6846 or email lisa.edeal@jchealthandlife.org to register or for more information.