Diabetic Care at DePaul Community Health Centers
Diabetes is a serious health condition that affects millions of people around the globe. Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your body has trouble producing or using insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels.
There are several types of diabetes:
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Type 1 Diabetes: The body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin which is a hormone that plays an important role in regulating blood sugar levels. This type of diabetes requires that you take insulin daily to survive.
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Type 2 Diabetes: Your body has trouble keeping blood sugar at normal levels, because it has difficulty using insulin well. This type develops over many years. What makes this type dangerous is you may not notice any symptoms. Because of this, you should get your blood sugar tested regularly.
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Gestational Diabetes: This type develops during pregnancy even if you have never had diabetes. It normally goes away after your baby is born, however, it does increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Are you at risk?
Pay attention to your body! Contact us today if you experience any of the following:
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Frequent urination
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Increased thirst
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Blurred vision
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Fatigue
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Slow-healing sores
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Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
Early diagnosis and management are crucial for preventing serious complications of diabetes. Left untreated, you are increasing your chances of serious complications such as:
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Heart disease
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Stroke
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Kidney disease
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Nerve damage
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Amputations
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Blindness
Let's work together.
Don’t wait for the symptoms. Visit the nearest health center today for FREE preventative care tips.
If you are a person living with diabetes, our experienced providers can help you with FREE RESOURCES, TOOLS and PERSONALIZED CARE PLANS, including:
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Regular checkups and blood sugar monitoring
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Medication management
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Nutrition counseling
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Exercise guidance
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Education on diabetes self-management
You will work with a team of health care professionals to manage your diabetes, including a Provider, Diabetes Educator and Social Worker. This means that you will be part of a community, supporting each other to manage diabetes together.
PLUS, you may be eligible for FREE diabetic supplies!
Contact your nearest DCHC health center for more information, including educational session dates, topics and locations.
The DePaul Blog: Your Health, Explained
Diabetes-Friendly Recipes to Help You Eat Well and Feel Good
Eating well is one of the most powerful tools for managing diabetes. The right meals can help keep your blood sugar steady, support heart health, and make sticking to your care plan easier and more enjoyable. To help you along the way, we’ve gathered a selection of tasty, diabetes-friendly recipes that are nutritious, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Veggies
A lean protein paired with fiber-rich vegetables keeps your blood sugar stable and your body satisfied.
Try this recipe:
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken & Veggie Sheet Pan
https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/276923/grilled-lemon-herb-chicken-veggie-sheet-pan/
Why it works:
- Lean protein
- Non-starchy vegetables
- Simple, whole ingredients
This nutrient-packed salad is full of plant-based protein, fiber, and complex carbs that help support blood glucose control.
Try this recipe:
Quinoa & Black Bean Salad with Lime Vinaigrette
https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/240208/quinoa-and-black-bean-salad/
Why it works:
- Whole grains + fiber
- Plant-based protein
- Fresh, vibrant flavors
Omega-3 fats in salmon are great for heart health, an important focus for people living with diabetes.
Try this recipe:
Baked Salmon Dijon with Garlic & Herbs
https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/baked-salmon-with-garlic-herb-butter-recipe-2106618
Why it works:
- Heart-healthy fats
- Simple, flavorful seasoning
- Great with a side of steamed greens
A low-carb twist on a takeout classic that delivers flavor without spiking blood glucose.
Try this recipe:
Cauliflower Fried Rice (Diabetes Friendly)
https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/cauliflower-fried-rice.html
Why it works:
- Lower in carbs than traditional rice
- Packed with vegetables
- Easy to make ahead
Satisfy your sweet tooth without refined sugars. Chia seeds add fiber and healthy fats that help slow glucose absorption.
Try this recipe:
Mixed Berry Chia Pudding (Low-Sugar)
https://www.health.com/recipe/mixed-berry-chia-pudding
Why it works:
- Natural sweetness from berries
- High fiber keeps you full longer
- Great make-ahead breakfast or snack
At DePaul Community Health Centers, our care teams are here to support you with personalized nutrition resources as part of your diabetes care plan. If you haven’t already, schedule an appointment today to talk with a provider about meal planning, blood sugar monitoring, and long-term diabetes management.
