Clemson Extension Rural Health and Nutrition Blog

The Dawn Phenomenon

a white glucometer and lancing device used to test blood glucose

Introduction Some people living with diabetes may check their blood glucose (blood sugar) first thing in the morning and be surprised to find that it is higher than expected, even though they have not eaten overnight. This is a common experience and may be related to the Dawn Phenomenon. This article explores what the Dawn […]

Fast Food and Diabetes: How to Make Informed Choices

When choosing healthier options at fast-food restaurants, you can enjoy the convenience while continuing to effectively self-manage your blood sugar. Image Credit: Conner Russell Fast food is convenient, affordable, and often part of a busy lifestyle. However, many fast-food meals are high in refined carbohydrates and added sugars and are served in large portion sizes, […]

Diabetes Superstar Foods

Blueberries, yogurt, and whole grains are diabetes superstar foods that deliver fiber, protein, and antioxidants to support overall health and blood sugar management. Image Credit: RHN Team Picture Bank Managing diabetes is often misunderstood as requiring people to give up their favorite foods or follow complicated meal plans. However, many everyday foods, which can be […]

Protein Bars with Diabetes

What is Diabetes? Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when an individual’s blood glucose (blood sugar) is too high. If an individual has diabetes, their body does not make enough insulin or does not use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that helps glucose (sugar) enter into an individual’s cells, […]

Hormones and Their Impact on Health  

A person measuring their waist with a tape measure

This fact sheet is Part 1 of the Hormones and Chronic Disease series. Follow along each month to learn more about hormones and how they impact chronic disease risk, prevention, and management.   Introduction  Hormones are part of the endocrine system which includes various glands (pituitary gland, pineal gland, hypothalamus, parathyroid, thyroid, thymus, and adrenal gland) and organs […]

Understanding and Addressing Sickness Absence in the Workplace

Figure 1 Clemson University FMLA manual

Sickness absence remains one of the most significant contributors to economic and social challenges, directly impacting daily workplace operations and overall organizational effectiveness. In 2003, reports indicated that over 176 million working days were lost due to sickness absence. Today, that figure has risen dramatically, with billions of workdays lost annually due to illnesses. What […]

Protein: For Diabetes, It Is a Balancing Act

A bowl containing two herb-baked chicken thighs served with roasted potatoes

What You Need to Know Protein is one of the three macronutrients considered the foundation of the foods we consume and is a necessary component of a wholesome, well-balanced diet. Good-quality proteins include: Proteins are made of amino acids, which are often called the building blocks of proteins. Within proteins, there are non-essential amino acids […]

PCOS Is Now PMOS: Why Names Matter

An exam room at an OBGYN office.

In May 2026, the condition formerly known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) was officially renamed to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). What is PMOS (formerly PCOS)? PMOS is a condition that affects over 170 million women worldwide and is linked to hormonal dysregulation in the body. The exact cause is unknown but is linked to […]

Understanding Starchy and Non-Starchy Vegetables for Diabetes Management

A meal using the Diabetes Plate Method: 1/2 of the plate non-starchy vegetables, 1/4 of the plate lean protein, and 1/4 of the plate carbohydrates and starches.

From the time an individual is in preschool through the elder years, “Eat your vegetables!” is a very common recommendation from health professionals and public health organizations. However, despite ongoing dietary guidelines recommending adults consume at least 2.5-3 servings of vegetables daily, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2021, 20.3% […]

The Glycemic Index: A Helpful Tool for Blood Glucose Management

Carbohydrates and the Human Body All foods provide the human body with at least one of three macronutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Of the three macronutrients, the human body prefers carbohydrates as its primary source of fuel for supplying the body’s cells, tissues, and organs with energy. Carbohydrates can come from many different foods, including: […]

Reasonable Accommodations for Individuals with Chronic Health Conditions

Chronic Health Conditions and Disability Chronic health conditions, such as cancer, arthritis, and diabetes, tend to develop gradually and worsen over time. When chronic health conditions transition from an asymptomatic to a symptomatic stage, they can contribute to the onset of disability. Diabetes, for example, is a condition in which the body either does not […]

High Blood Sugar and Hunger

Lee en español 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 […]

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, […]