Essentia Health-Graceville working to prevent diabetes and provide support for those with prediabetes

A healthy lifestyle program that can reduce your chance of developing type II diabetes or prediabetes is being offered by Essentia Health-Graceville.

The free, 16-week program, called Weigh 2 Change, starts Dec. 13 at the Essentia Health-Graceville Clinic conference room, 115 W. Second St. The group will meet at 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday to learn about lifestyle choices that will help you lose weight, eat healthier and get active.

You may be at risk for type II diabetes or prediabetes if you answer yes to one or more of these questions:

Are you?

• Over age 45
• Overweight
• Have a parent or sibling with diabetes
• Identify as African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Asian American or Pacific Islander
• Had diabetes while pregnant or gave birth to a baby over 9 pounds
• Physically active less than three times a week

Similar programs can cost $150, but Essentia Health offers it for no cost. Call (320) 748-7223 ext. 4 to register for the course.

If you have concerns about your diabetes management or believe you may be at risk, please contact your physician or the Diabetes Resource Program at Essentia Health-Graceville at (320) 748-7223.