Cook-ups tackling indigenous diabetes

Over the past five weeks, the Rivervale Community Centre has played kitchen, dining room and supermarket to locals who have learnt how to prepare healthy meals, shop for healthy food and take part in fun fitness activities.

Diabetes WA health promotion officer (Aboriginal health) Asha Singh said the program was very successful in building people’s confidence to tackle their diabetes and switch to a healthy lifestyle.

‘Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders have a three-times higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes,’ she said.

‘The program is about giving people the skills and confidence to prepare healthy meals for their families.’

Participant Jenny McEwan, from Kewdale, said she wanted to teach her grandchildren about healthy eating and the workshops taught her some valuable skills.

The Rivervale cook-up program will run until March 26 and is open to new participants.

Diabetes WA will run another seven-week session after the Easter holidays.