SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and a Memorial Health dietitian is encouraging people to understand their blood sugar levels and how lifestyle choices can affect their health.

Erin Zepp, dietitian and culinary medicine coordinator at the Memorial Wellness Center, said about one-third of American adults have diabetes or prediabetes, a condition that can precede Type 2 diabetes.

“One out of three American adults, a full-on 33 and a third percent of us, have some issue with our blood sugar,” Zepp said.

Zepp encourages people to schedule regular medical appointments and get their blood sugar tested, particularly those with a family history of diabetes.

While genetics play a role in a person’s risk, Zepp said lifestyle choices can also influence blood sugar management.

“Can’t do anything to help with the genetics, but … the lifestyle stuff” is something people can work to improve, Zepp said.

Diet is one area where people can make changes. Zepp recommends focusing on plant-based foods, including beans, as part of a healthy approach to cooking and eating.

“When you’re cooking to manage your blood sugars, we want to think plant first,” Zepp said.

Zepp also said sugar substitutes, including monk fruit and allulose, can be useful options for people looking to reduce the amount of sugar in their diets. However, different products have different tastes and sweetness levels, so finding the right option depends on personal preference and how it will be used.

Beyond dietary choices, Zepp encouraged people who may be hesitant about seeking medical care to take that step.

“Going to the doc isn’t a report card, we’re here to help you,” Zepp said.

Zepp’s comments come as Memorial Health prepares to host a free community cooking class, “What’s for Dinner? Cooking to Manage Blood Sugar,” in partnership with Blue Cross and Blue Shield. The class will cover food choices and cooking techniques that can support blood sugar management. The event is scheduled for Nov. 15 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at the Memorial Wellness Center.