The Montana Diabetes Program (MDP) is excited to offer two new health education programs to Montana communities. MDP is looking for organizations interested in implementing the new DECIDE Diabetes Problem-Solving Support Program (DSP) or the new MEND Healthy Together Family Health Weight Program (FHWP). 

MEND Healthy Together guides children and their families in achieving and maintaining a healthier lifestyle. It’s a fun and supportive program, that helps families get fitter, healthier and happier for life! 

DECIDE is a problem-solving program designed for adults 18 years and older, with a diagnosis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes. This program supports people with diabetes at all stages of chronic disease management. DECIDE empowers the individual to discover solutions to daily challenges.

If your organization would like more information or is interested in offering one of these new health education programs, please email diabetes@mt.gov. Join us April 23, 2025, at 12pm MST for an informational meeting. 

Meeting information is found below:

Microsoft Teams Need help?

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 244 291 734 388

Passcode: ZX3KM2ej

Dial in by phone

+1 406-318-5487,,376717444#United States, Billings

Find a local number

Phone conference ID: 376 717 444#

Being active all year long is key to living a healthy life and managing diabetes, prediabetes, and other chronic health conditions. Spring is a great time to get back in the groove, be more consistent about physical activity, and feel better! 

MT DPHHS’s Public Health In The 406 is promoting April as “Move More Month.”  Walking or other ‘heart pumping’ activities provide many benefits:

• May lower blood glucose for 24 to 48 hours.
• May reduce the need for medications.
• Improves mood and gives you more energy!
• Decreases stress and can help you sleep better.
• Strengthens bones and helps improve flexibility and balance.

Recommendations include 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week (30 minutes at least 5 days a week) or vigorous exercise for 75 minutes per week.

The goal of being active is to sit less, move more, and include strengthening activities and movements that improve balance and flexibility. For ideas about starting small and overcoming barriers to being active, check out these tips:

• https://www.adces.org/docs/default-source/handouts/healthyeating/handout_pwd_ba_beingactiveseasonal.pdf?Status=Master&sfvrsn=59ba359_6
• Get Active! | Exercise & Diabetes | ADA

The MT DPHHS offers a 6-week, self-directed “Walk with Ease” program. If you’d like help with starting or maintaining a walking program, visit State of Montana Wellness Programs

This Spring, whether you’re striding it out or supporting other national monthly observances that promote health, like National Pickleball Month or National Lawn and Garden Month, take time to get out, be active and moving more in the 406!

What's new in the World of Diabetes Technology

With the new year underway there are exciting diabetes technology and advancements anticipated to be released in 2025. 

From the introduction to continuous ketone monitoring to new indications for current medications there is much to look forward to. Continued research focused on moving towards a functional cure as trials for stem cell-derived islet cell therapy will also begin. 

This year's new technology and treatments could promote improvement in accessibility and outcomes for people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Visit the link to learn more.

New Diabetes Devices and Other Advancements We Expect in 2025 - Taking Control Of Your Diabetes®

On Your Way to Preventing Type 2 Diabetes

Not everyone is ready to start a lifestyle change program, and some want to get a jump start while waiting for their program sessions to begin. The CDC has provided resources to help these clients prepare. 

The On Your Way to Preventing Type 2 Diabetes page provides information on prediabetes along with helpful tips when considering or preparing for a lifestyle change program. This resource page guides people with or at risk of prediabetes though concepts for change like identifying opportunities to make changes, setting goals, making a plan, ideas for healthy eating, and tracking progress.  

The goal is to start people at risk of diabetes down the road of prevention and wellness. This is a great resource for those who may be waiting to participate in a DPP cohort or those who are still considering. For more information visit About "On Your Way to Preventing Type 2 Diabetes" | Diabetes | CDC 

Smart Swap Recipes 

Adequate protein paired with berries can satisfy a sweet tooth and keep you feeling full. Here is a breakfast idea to kickstart your day. 

The Good Morning Power Parfait provides a fresh and sweet protein punch for a morning on the go. This can be prepared ahead of time and is a smart swap for other high carb breakfast options. 

Good Morning Power Parfait | American Diabetes Association