Phoenixville Free Clinic Celebrates National Nutrition Month

March is national nutrition month, Fran Alloway, one of our volunteer nutritionists does amazing work at Phoenixville Free Clinic, educating our patients about good nutritional health, and helps them find realistic ways to achieve their health and wellness goals. Nutrition is one of the many ways that PFC is able to improve the lives our uninsured patients! She recently met with a new patient, Robin to help her reach her health and wellness goals.

Robin came in for her routine checkup with Phoenixville Free Clinic. Jacki, the nurse practitioner, conducted a physical exam and diagnostic tests, including blood work, to assess Robin's overall health. When the results arrived, among the findings was a diagnosis that Robin hadn't anticipated: type 2 diabetes. This was evident by an elevated fasting blood glucose and an elevated Hemoglobin A1c.  Jacki outlined the conventional treatment options, including medication, but Robin expressed her reluctance to follow that path. She voiced her concerns about potential side effects and her desire to explore alternative approaches to managing her condition. Understanding Robin's apprehension, Jacki suggested a consultation with the clinic's nutritionist. She emphasized the importance of lifestyle modifications, particularly dietary changes, in managing type 2 diabetes effectively. With the nutritionist, Robin will learn about the importance of balanced meals, portion control, and incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into her diet. She will continue to have regular follow-up visits with laboratory testing at least every 3 months in order to evaluate her body’s response to the changes she is making.