The holidays can be a tough time for families, especially families dealing with diabetes. With a little preparation and some diabetes know-how, families can be ready to face the holidays with excitement! The most important thing about managing diabetes is to plan ahead. There are plenty of ways to lower fat, sugar and carbohydrates in your favorite foods while still keeping the taste and texture you love.

The Dining with Diabetes: ‘Healthier Eating for the Holidays’ workshop will be Nov. 18 at the University Tennessee Extension Building, 95 Church Street S.E., in downtown Cleveland.

The two-hour class is from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Speakers will include Pam Newton, registered dietitian with the Southeast Region Tennessee Department of Health, and Kaye Smith, extension agent with the University of Tennessee Extension in Bradley County. They will share information about healthier holiday meals, meal planning, recipes and dishes appropriate for the holidays.

For more information and registration information, call the UT Extension office at 728-7001. The class fee of $10 (for the first family member and an additional $6 for the second member) can be mailed to UT Extension, 95 Church Street S.E., Cleveland, TN 37311, by Nov. 15.

This class is appropriate for persons with diabetes, caretakers and others interested in eating healthier during the holidays.