Individual diabetes instruction and medical nutrition counseling are available through the diabetes nutrition and education center. Call 301-714-4041 to schedule an appointment with the nurse educator and/or dietitian. An initial assessment of diabetes knowledge and skills will be done. An education plan will be developed with the participant. It might include any or all of the 15 content areas recommended by the American Diabetes Association. These topics include

1. Diabetes overview
2. Nutrition
3. Exercise and activity
4. Medications
5. Monitoring and use of results
6. Relationship among nutrition, exercise, medication, and blood glucose levels
7. Prevention, detection, and treatment of high and low blood sugars
8. Prevention, detection, and treatment of long-term complications
9. Foot, skin, and dental care 10. Stress and psychosocial adjustment
11. Behavior change strategies, goal setting, risk factor reduction, and problem solving
12. Benefits, risks, and management options for improving glucose control
13. Preconception care, pregnancy, and gestational diabetes
14. Use of health care systems and community resources
15. Family involvement and social support