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San Antonio Chef & Health Institute Team Up for Free World Diabetes Day Event
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A free community event aimed at raising awareness about diabetes and promoting healthy living will be held this Friday, Nov. 14, at the university Health Texas Diabetes Institute. The event will feature a new, locally-inspired recipe developed in partnership with celebrated San Antonio chef Blanca Aldaco and the institute’s dietitians, alongside free health screenings and resources.
A Growing Health Crisis in San Antonio
Diabetes rates in San Antonio are significantly higher than state and national averages, posing a serious public health challenge.According to data from the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District, over 14% of local residents have been diagnosed with the disease – a figure that surpasses the 10.6% rate observed statewide and the 9.3% national average. This disparity is particularly pronounced within the Hispanic and African American communities,who face a disproportionately higher risk of developing diabetes.
“Many people are living with prediabetes or diabetes and don’t even know it,” said an endocrinologist with University Health. “Events like this bring the community together to raise awareness and show that prevention and healthy living can be tasty and enjoyable.”
Chef Aldaco’s Personal connection & Culinary Contribution
The event’s unique appeal lies in the collaboration with Blanca Aldaco, owner of the renowned San Antonio restaurant Aldaco’s. A successful entrepreneur and restaurateur for over three decades, Aldaco also lives with diabetes, lending a deeply personal dimension to her involvement. She has partnered with University Health registered dietitians to create a diabetic-kind recipe, showcasing how flavorful and authentic Mexican cuisine can be enjoyed while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample the new recipe and learn preparation techniques.
Free Health Services & Resources
Beyond the culinary demonstration, the World Diabetes Day event will offer a range of free health services, including:
- Glucose testing
- Vision screenings
- A demonstration of a healthy holiday recipe
- A chance to receive a free turkey voucher courtesy of H-E-B, while supplies last.
Event Details
What: World Diabetes Day – free community event and health fair
When: Friday, Nov. 14, 9-11 a.m.
Where: university Health Texas Diabetes Institute,701 S.Zarzamora Rd.
Who: Blanca Aldaco,San Antonio chef and restaurateur,and endocrinologists and dietitians from University Health.
Why: the event aims to address the high diabetes rates in San Antonio, particularly within vulnerable communities, by providing education, resources, and a culturally relevant approach to healthy eating. Who: The event is a collaboration between the San Antonio Chef & Health Institute, University health Texas Diabetes Institute, and chef Blanca Aldaco. What: Its a free community event offering health screenings, a diabetic-friendly recipe demonstration, and resources. How: Through a partnership leveraging culinary expertise and medical knowledge to promote diabetes prevention. The event concluded after the scheduled time of 11 a.m.
