Extension Rural Health & Nutrition

High Blood Sugar and Hunger

What You Need to Know Polyphagia, also known as hyperphagia, is a medical term for excessive or insatiable hunger, even after a meal. This phenomenon is commonly experienced among individuals working to manage a diagnosis of diabetes and can present a significant barrier to effective diabetes self-management. Persistent feelings of hunger may lead to overeating, […]

New Year, Less Stress: Diabetes and Caregiving

The New Year can bring new challenges for caregivers. Caregivers balancing a diabetes diagnosis and caregiver responsibilities should be mindful of limiting high-stress situations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people living with diabetes are twice as likely to experience depression or other mental health challenges compared to those at a […]

Uncovering Nutrition Misinformation

Introduction: With the rapid rise of media and its influence – including television, the internet, and mobile applications – society’s wellness culture has become increasingly oversaturated with information related to fad diets, trends, and presumed quick fixes. Amidst the overwhelming influx of “health-related” noise, it can be difficult to distinguish what is fact from fiction, […]

Neuropathy: Increasing Awareness of Nervous System-Related Complications from Diabetes

The Nervous System The nervous system is responsible for sending messages throughout the body via electrical signals. These electrical signals instruct our bodies to perform various tasks, such as walking, talking, thinking, and digesting food. The brain and spinal cord make up the central nervous system. The nervous system is comprised of nerve cells known […]

Getting Restful Sleep with Diabetes: A Guide to Practicing Good Sleep Hygiene

Sleep: An Overview Sleep is an essential component of human health and well-being. On average, individuals spend approximately 1/3 (33%) of their lives asleep, underscoring the critical role sleep plays in maintaining normal physiological and cognitive function.  Without sufficient sleep, the human body cannot sustain its optimal performance or maintain long-term health. This is because […]

The Intersection of Elder Abuse and Diabetes 

Elder abuse is a serious and often overlooked public health issue. Estimates of elder abuse vary, but systematic reviews and population studies consistently show that abuse and neglect are under-reported and affect a substantial number of older adults. Elder abuse is defined as intentional or negligent action(s) by a trusted adult or caregiver that induces […]

Taking Care of Yourself: Preventing Caregiver Burnout

Caregiving is one of the hardest and most meaningful things you can do. Whether it is an aging parent, a partner, or a friend, stepping into that role changes your life. It can bring closeness and purpose, but it also comes with long hours, constant worry, and stress that wears on you over time. That […]

Los Edulcorantes No Nutritivos

This article is also available in English: Non-Nutritive Sweeteners ¿Qué son los edulcorantes no nutritivos? Los edulcorantes no nutritivos son agentes edulcorantes que tienen una mayor intensidad edulcorante y un menor contenido calórico que los edulcorantes calóricos como la sacarosa o el jarabe de maíz. Los edulcorantes no nutritivos pueden derivarse de plantas o hierbas, […]

Diabetes Distress

What is Diabetes Distress People living with diabetes are at risk for developing psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety. The stress associated with managing diabetes can become a significant problem and this stress can contribute to the development of psychological disorders. In some cases, people living with diabetes may experience what is known as […]