The Diabetes Education and Nutrition Program has a Registered and Licensed Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator available by appointment. This program is a free service.

People who eat a healthy diet live longer and are at lower risk for serious health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. For people with chronic diseases, healthy eating can help manage these conditions and prevent complications.

Poor Nutrition Is Making Our Nation Sick

Many Americans’ diets lack adequate sources of good nutrition.

  • Fewer than 1 in 10 children and adults eat the recommended daily amount of vegetables.

  • Only 4 in 10 children and fewer than 1 in 7 adults eat enough fruit.

Vitamin and mineral malnutrition impacts our health and economy.

  • Low levels of vitamins and minerals can result in mental impairment and central nervous system defects in infants.

  • Poor nutrition contributes to many costly diseases, including obesity, heart disease, and some cancers.

Mothers stop breastfeeding earlier than intended.

  • About 80% of mothers start out breastfeeding, but more than 50% stop sooner than they planned.

  • Low rates of breastfeeding add more than $2 billion a year to direct medical costs.

Prevalence of Obesity Among Adults and Youth

Adults aged 20 and over (age adjusted) and youth aged 2–19 years: United States, 1999–2000 through 2015–2016. Source: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db288_table.pdf#5

In the United States, approximately 30 million persons are living with diabetes and 84 million with prediabetes according to the CDC. Persons with prediabetes are at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Likewise, women who have had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) are at increased risk for developing typing 2 diabetes later in life. However, type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed through a structure lifestyle change program that promotes weight loss, healthy eating, and increased physical activity.

MEDICAL NUTRITION THERAPY SERVICES PROVIDED

  • Weight management for adults and pediatrics

  • Poor eating habits

  • Pregnancy nutrition counseling

  • Disease specific nutrition counseling

  • Diabetes education

APPOINTMENTS

  • A doctor’s order is not necessary

  • Call the Diabetes Education and Nutrition Program at (225) 638-5717

  • Hours are Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM until 4:30 PM

INSTRUCTORS

Melissa Guillory, RDN, LDN Community Dietician

Melissa Guillory, RDN, LDN
Community Dietitian

Jeanene Thibaut, RN, CDE Certified Diabetes Educator

Jeanene Thibaut, RN, CDE
Certified Diabetes Educator

In a similar light, Pointe Coupee General Hospital also hosts a weekly Weight Watchers® meeting.