The S.M.I.L.E. Healthcare team offers the following classes to our patients. All, with the exception of Craving Change, require a referral from a LBD PCN family physician.
Pre-diabetes
This class is appropriate for those patients with Impaired Fasting Glucose or Impaired Glucose Tolerance. This two-hour class helps patients understand pre-diabetes and how it can be managed through healthy lifestyle changes.
Diabetes 101 – Separating Myths from Facts
This 3 hour class provides patients with a general knowledge base regarding diabetes and is appropriate for those newly diagnosed with diabetes or those people who need a refresher or updated information. The class discusses a variety of topics including; what is diabetes, healthy eating, the importance of getting active and how to take diabetic medications. The overall goal of this course is to provide patients with the necessary information so they can manage their disease and therefore prevent any future complications. During the class, many “diabetes myths” will be addressed.
Heart Healthy
Heart Healthy is a two-hour class that addresses both hypertension and Dyslipidemia helping patients to understand the importance of managing both of these conditions. Heart healthy food options are emphasized. Patients learn how to read nutrition labels looking for sodium and fat content. They learn how to minimize sodium and cholesterol intake and to make healthier food choices.
Weight Wise Modules
The Weight Wise Program has been developed by the Royal Alex Hospital bariatric clinic team led by Dr. Arya Sharma. The Weight Wise program consists of 10 different education modules that address a variety of topics around weight management. The module topics look at a variety of nutrition topics, the importance of physical activity in weight loss, stress management, etc. The SMILE team has been offering the Weight Wise modules locally since November 2010. Patients also have access to 1:1 appointments with the Dietitian and/or the Exercise Specialist as required.
Craving Change Workshop
The Craving Change workshop is a three-evening workshop that is open to the general public. Craving Change addresses emotional eating and food cravings and discusses many different strategies to help with problematic eating.
Blood Glucose Monitoring
This class is appropriate for anyone who needs education on blood glucose monitoring. It is beneficial to those who may struggle with the technique or experience difficulty understanding blood glucose targets. In a small group setting, patients are able to work with a SMILE team member in this hands-on class.