A remotely accessible plant-based culinary intervention for Latina/o/x adults at risk for diabetes: lessons learned.

Abstract

Little research has examined how community-engaged and -participatory dietary interventions adapted to remotely-accessible settings during the COVID-19 pandemic. To identify lessons learned in design, implementation, and evaluation of a remotely-accessible, community-based, nurse-led approach of a culturally-tailored whole food plant-based culinary intervention for Latina/o/x adults to reduce type 2 diabetes risk, delivered during a pandemic. A mixed methods quasi-experimental design consisting of a pre-post evaluation comprised of questionnaires, culinary classes, biometrics, and focus groups. Community partnerships are essential for successful recruitment/retention. To optimally deliver a remotely-accessible intervention, community leadership and study volunteers should be included in every decision (e.g., timeframes, goals). Recommendations include managing recruitment and supply chain disruption of intervention supplies. Future research should focus on increasing accessibility and engagement in minoritized and/or underserved communities, supply chain including quality assurance and delivery of services/goods, study design for sustainable, remotely-accessible interventions, and health promotion.