CHICAGO -- Diabetes affects millions of Americans in the U.S., particularly racial/ethnic minorities and those living in low-income communities. Researchers Drs. Monica Peek and Marshall Chin at the University of Chicago are working to increase diabetes awareness, reduce diabetes disparities, and empower Chicago's south side community to use its knowledge and resources to combat diabetes through the project Improving Diabetes Care and Outcomes on the Southside of Chicago (aka the Southside Diabetes Project).

In observance of National Diabetes Month, The Southside Diabetes Project at the University of Chicago announces its 2nd Annual Diabetes Cook Off Contest .The cook off is an opportunity for cooks to compete and share their best diabetes friendly, healthy recipe and to demonstrate that healthy, diabetes-friendly food can be delicious, affordable, and enjoyed by the entire family.
Recipes in four categories: side dish, entree, dessert, and snack will be judged for a grand prize of $500 cash and many other great prizes! Cooks can enter online at Improving Diabetes Care on Facebook or email info@southsidediabetes.org. Entry deadline is Friday, November 1, 2013.

The University of Chicago's President Sharon O'Keefe, Certified Diabetes Educator Marla Solomon, Professional Chef Brian X and many more will serve as panel judges. To determine the12 semi-finalists, our team will choose the healthiest recipes according to the requirement guidelines. The semi-finalists will be notified by November 9th and be assigned Washburne culinary coaches that will assist cooks. The semi-finalist then will present their recipes to a panel of culinary and health experts at the Diabetes Cook-Off Contest on Saturday, November 16th at the Washburne Culinary Institute located at 740 West 63rd St, Building U, on the south side of Chicago. All recipe ingredients will be supplied by Save-A-Lot Food Stores. Visit the EMB Medical Supply booth to learn how to get a pair of Diabetic shoes!