A new interactive Web site has been launched through the University’s Extension urban programs that can help people with diabetes better manage their diet to live a healthier life. The site contains a guide to eating for target blood glucose levels, and information about food groups and diabetes.

Diabetes is a disease that affects more than 20 million Americans over the age of 20, according to the American Diabetes Association. It can lead to serious complications and premature death, but people with diabetes can take steps to control the disease, according to the association.

Karen Chapman-Novakofski, associate professor of Nutrition and Extension Nutrition Specialist, and one of her graduate students, Trina Sprengelmeyer, created the site using information collected during Chapman-Novakofski’s 11 years of research in diabetes.

“Diet is the cornerstone of treatment for diabetes,” Chapman-Novakofski said.

In her work as a researcher and dietician, she said she has found that diet management, including portion control and consistency, can help those with diabetes loose weight, which helps lower glucose levels and keep the disease in better control.

Kate Labrecque, senior in Communications, is a member of Diabetic Illini, a Registered Student Organization. Labrecque, who was diagnosed with diabetes when she was 14-years-old, said the group raises money for research, but also acts as a support group for people with diabetes.

“It’s just nice to know that you’re not alone,” Labrecque said.

Labrecque said that she must constantly be aware of the foods she is eating.

“I always have to think, how many carbs are in this, or how is this going to affect my blood sugar,” Labrecque said. “I’ve gotten used to it now, but I think for someone who has been recently diagnosed, having information like (the kind on the Web site) would be really helpful in getting into a good routine.”

Developing a healthy diet is one of the best ways people with diabetes can control their disease said Jo-Anne Rizzotto, certified diabetes educator for the Joslin Diabetes Center, a national non-profit organization that focuses on diabetes research, care and education.

“Weight is directly parallel to the development of type 2 diabetes,” Rizzotto said. “As the average weight of Americans increases, the number of cases of type 2 diabetes has increased proportionally.”

Rizzotto said as a person’s weight increases, the body’s insulin does not work as efficiently in controlling blood glucose levels. For that reason, it is important for those with diabetes, or act risk for diabetes, maintain healthy diets and exercise regularly.

Both Rizzotto and Chapman-Norakofski said that there is no such thing as a “diabetic diet,” but rather, it is important that all Americans practice good nutrition to avoid certain diseases. For those with diabetes, precautions, specifically eating foods with certain types of carbohydrates in moderation, can help control the affects of their disease.

Chapman-Norakofski said response to the Web site has been positive and she hopes information on the Web site can help control symptoms of the disease to help people lead healthier lives.