Fresh Idaho potatoes are the first crop to take part in the American Diabetes Association’s (ADA) prestigious Better Choices for Life program thanks to a multi-year collaboration unveiled by the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) and the above-mentioned organization.

The collaboration aims to inform tens of millions of Americans about how they can include Idaho potatoes in their diet.

One of the most serious health problems facing the nation is diabetes. In the U.S., 133m people have diabetes or hyperglycemia, and someone is identified with the disease every 23 seconds. The most common query the ADA gets is, “What can I eat?” intending to prevent and eradicate diabetes and better the lives of all people impacted by it. Many people mistakenly think they can’t consume potatoes.

“We want those with diabetes and prediabetes to feel confident eating potatoes with their breakfast, lunch, or dinner as long as serving size and preparation recommendations are followed. This partnership aims to enhance people’s understanding of nutrition, especially carbohydrates; help build healthy eating habits and debunk some myths about potatoes and diabetes,” Jamey Higham, President & CEO, IPC, explained.

The Better Choices for Life program utilizes the ADA’s evidence-based standards and viewpoint to assist customers in making wise decisions regarding the goods they buy. The Better Choices for Life logo is displayed on the packaging of participating goods. Customers will start to notice this reputable brand on a few 5-lb and 10-lb packages of fresh Idaho potatoes in the upcoming months.

“The American Diabetes Association’s mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. One way we do this is to educate on ways to improve nutrition status and overall health using the Diabetes Plate Method. We proudly announce that the Idaho Potato Commission meets the American Diabetes Association’s Better Choices for Life nutrition guidelines. Idaho potatoes are a healthy vegetable on the Diabetes Plate. We look forward to working together to bring awareness of healthful choices and food preparation in our fight to better manage and prevent diabetes,” Dr. Laura Hieronymus, VP of Health Care Programs for the ADA, said.

The ADA developed the Diabetes Plate Method to assist people with diabetes and prediabetes in preparing nutritious meals that can help them control their blood sugar. (blood sugar). Using this strategy, people can put together a meal with a balanced combination of veggies, protein, and carbohydrates, which can include potatoes.