Food Is Medicine Program Helps Participants Build Healthier Habits, Reduce Diabetes Risk

NORTH CONWAY, NH - People who want to improve their health through better nutrition, physical activity and lifestyle changes have a new opportunity this summer through the MaineHealth Food Is Medicine program at MaineHealth Memorial Hospital.

Classes begin Thursday, July 9, at 4:30 pm at MaineHealth Memorial Hospital. The one-hour classes meet weekly for four months and then twice per month for the remainder of the year. A trained instructor will provide guidance and encouragement throughout the program.

For many people, healthy eating is a pathway to better health, helping them develop healthier eating habits, increase physical activity, reduce health risks, and build the confidence needed to sustain long-term lifestyle changes.

"The class is really a facilitated discussion and learning together," said Allison Kelly, who leads the program. "The best knowledge comes from the folks in the group. They help each other with tips, ideas and encouragement, so it's a nice balance of learning and support."

Designed for adults who are overweight, have prediabetes or are at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, and face challenges accessing affordable healthy foods, the program provides participants with the tools and support needed to make lasting lifestyle changes.

Small, achievable goals that build over time

"We always say that small steps lead to some of the biggest successes," Kelly said. "The first four months help people build new habits, and the second part of the program helps them learn how to maintain those habits and stay accountable on their own."

Participants must be 18 years of age or older, carry extra weight, have prediabetes or be at risk for Type 2 diabetes, and have limited access to affordable healthy foods. Individuals with Type 2 diabetes or who are pregnant are not eligible.

The MaineHealth Food Is Medicine program at MaineHealth Memorial Hospital is built on a program developed by Healthy Oxford Hills at MaineHealth Stephens Hospital in Norway. Activities include healthy lifestyle coaching through the MaineHealth Diabetes Prevention Program, cooking classes through the Cooking Matters program, weekly bags of food and recipes from North Conway's Vaughn Food Pantry, and local physical activity opportunities. Kelly said participants often find the peer support and accountability they receive from fellow class members to be among the program's most valuable benefits.

Previous participants report life-changing results, including weight loss, improved physical and mental health, reduced reliance on medications, increased confidence, and stronger connections with others pursuing similar goals.

Call for more information, or to register.

###

About MaineHealth Memorial Hospital
MaineHealth Memorial Hospital is a 25-bed Critical Access Hospital serving the Mount Washington Valley of northern New Hampshire and western Maine. MaineHealth Memorial Hospital has earned a reputation among local residents and visitors for providing quality, compassionate and personalized care to its patients.

MaineHealth Memorial Hospital includes a robust array of health care services including primary and specialty care services and therapies, emergency care, a birthing center and surgical services. Its care team of 525 includes physicians and advance practice providers who are among the more than 2,000 providers who are part of the MaineHealth Medical Group. Memorial patients have access to onsite care in oncology, cardiology, vascular and pulmonary medicine. MaineHealth Memorial Hospital also partners with several local organizations to provide outreach and educational services supporting the health of our patients and community.

MaineHealth Memorial Hospital is part of MaineHealth, a not-for-profit integrated health system whose vision is, "Working together so our communities are the healthiest in America." As part of the MaineHealth family, MaineHealth Memorial Hospital is able to offer patients a comprehensive network of care that includes world-class specialists, a Level 1 Trauma medical center, comprehensive pediatric care services, an extensive behavioral health care network, diagnostic services.