March is National Nutrition Month, a time to focus on making informed food choices and developing healthier eating habits. This year’s theme, “Discover the Power of Nutrition,” encourages us to think about where our food comes from, how we prepare it, and how our food choices impact both our health and the environment.

Small, consistent changes—like planning balanced meals, staying hydrated, and being mindful about food choices—can make a meaningful difference in overall wellness.

Diabetes Lunch & Learn Series – Spring 2026

Mercy is offering a virtual Diabetes Lunch & Learn Series designed for individuals at any stage of their diabetes journey. Each session stands alone, so you may attend the topics most helpful to you.

📅 Session 1: Diabetes Basics
April 9 @ 11:30 a.m. | April 15 @ 6:00 p.m.

📅 Session 2: Day-to-Day Management
May 6 @ 12:00 p.m. | May 21 @ 6:00 p.m.

📅 Session 3: Going Deeper
June 18 @ 11:30 a.m. | June 25 @ 6:00 p.m.

Topics include understanding diabetes, prevention strategies, monitoring blood sugar, medications, and tools such as continuous glucose monitoring.

Register:
📧 sprgriskagreementscasemanagers@mercy.net
📞 417-841-5667

Online: Diabetes Lunch & Learn Registration

📌 Registration must be completed at least one week prior to the session date.

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Stay up to date on all employee wellness activities, programs, and available resources
For more information on Employee Wellness programs, contact Galen Martin, Coordinator of Employee Wellness, at EmployeeWellness@MissouriState.edu.

Nutrition Therapy Services at Magers Health and Wellness*

Employees and their dependents have access to nutrition therapy services with Daniela Novotney, registered dietitian. No referral is needed—simply call the scheduling desk to make an appointment.

Current Fee Structure

💰 Initial Nutrition Therapy: $67.20
💰 Follow-Up Nutrition Therapy (Reassessment): $57.75

Health Plan Coverage for Nutrition Services*

Missouri State University’s Group Medical Plan covers nutritional counseling only when part of a physician-supervised weight-loss program for treating morbid obesity/severe clinical obesity and related health conditions. Pre-approval is required, and coverage ends when BMI drops below 30.

📌 Note: Nutritional supplements are not covered under the medical plan.

📌 Note: Weight loss medications are not covered under the medical plan.

For more details, review the MSU Plan Document.

Flex Spending Options for Nutrition

If you are enrolled in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you may be able to use your FSA funds for:

✔️ Weight-loss programs (doctor-prescribed)
✔️ Dietary supplements (doctor-prescribed)

📌 Reminder: The last day to submit reimbursement requests for remaining 2025 FSA funds is March 15, 2026.

For more FSA-eligible expenses, visit the ASI Flex Spending website.

Additional Ways to Prioritize Nutrition

🥕 Plan balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
♻️ Reduce food waste by choosing seasonal, locally sourced foods.
💧 Stay hydrated and be mindful of portion sizes to support overall wellness.

Let’s make healthier choices together! 🥗💪

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