COLUMN: A spoonful of sweetness: Tackling diabetes

Here in Owen County, we love our pitch-ins, family dinners and sweet treats (who can say no to dessert?). But sometimes our health needs a little extra TLC, and diabetes is one of those things we can't ignore. The good news? Taking charge of your health doesn't mean giving up flavor or fun. In fact, with a few smart swaps and fresh ideas, living healthier can be just as tasty as that homemade pie at the church social.

What exactly is diabetes?

Think of your body like a car engine. Food is fuel, and insulin is the key that helps the fuel power the engine. For people with diabetes, the "key" doesn't always work the way it should. Sometimes the body doesn't make enough insulin, and sometimes it doesn't use it properly. That leaves too much sugar in the blood, which, over time, can wear down the body like bad gas in a car.

There are two main types:

Type 1 diabetes: the body doesn't produce insulin at all.

Type 2 diabetes: the body makes insulin but doesn't use it effectively

The good news? While there's no cure, diabetes can be managed with healthy meals, exercise and lifestyle choices. And that's where we, as a community, can make a difference.

Why it matters here in Owen County

Here at home, the numbers tell us we've got some work to do. Owen County reports higher-than-average rates of obesity and physical inactivity, which feed directly into diabetes risks. Add in barriers like limited access to healthy food and fewer exercise options, and it's clear why this health issue needs attention.

But statistics don't tell the whole story. Behind every number is a neighbor, a friend or a family member trying to live well with diabetes.

Enter: Purdue Extension

The good news is, we don't have to tackle this alone. Purdue Extension is here to help. Through programs like Dining with Diabetes, families can learn how to shop smarter, cook healthier and still enjoy food that tastes amazing.

It's not about giving up your favorites — it's about reimagining them in a way that supports health and keeps meals fun.

Yes, dessert is still on the table

One of the biggest myths about diabetes? No dessert. Thankfully, that's not true! With a little creativity, sweets can still be part of the plan. Here are a few tasty ideas:

Strawberry-Chocolate Greek Yogurt Bark
Creamy yogurt, fresh strawberries and dark chocolate chips — frozen and broken into bark for a sweet, crunchy snack.

Apple-Oat Crumble
Warm apples with a cinnamon-oat topping that delivers cozy comfort without the sugar overload.

Peanut Butter Banana "Ice Cream"
Frozen bananas blended with a spoonful of peanut butter = smooth, creamy and surprisingly indulgent.

Berry Parfaits
Fresh berries layered with vanilla Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of nuts. Pretty to look at, fun to eat!

Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Whole-wheat flour + pumpkin puree + warm spices = a treat that feels decadent but is packed with nutrition.

The takeaway

Diabetes may be a serious health concern in Owen County, but small steps can make a big difference. With the support of Purdue Extension's programs and a few creative kitchen swaps, living well with diabetes doesn't mean saying goodbye to flavor — it just means discovering new ways to enjoy it.

Because sometimes, the sweetest solutions come from working together.

Want to learn more about Dining with Diabetes? Call the Purdue Extension-Owen County office at 812-829-5020. Looking to bring a program to your group? From food and health to family and finance, I've got you covered! Shoot me an email at lowder0@purdue.edu and let's make it happen.

And don't forget — you can always spot my upcoming programs on our Facebook page, or our website extension.purdue.edu/county/owen/hhshome.html.