Prevention Produce for Women with Gestational Diabetes: A Student-Run Nutrition Education Program Partnered with Local Farmer’s Markets to Improve Pregnancy Outcomes

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Gestational diabetes (GDM), glucose intolerance with onset during pregnancy, is associated with increased risk of maternal and fetal complications. Prevention and management are critical, with diet and exercise as mainstays. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables are beneficial for glucose control. Despite receiving nutrition counseling by dietitians, patients often have difficulty successfully implementing lifestyle changes. Prevention Produce is a student-run program previously shown to benefit patients with hypertension. This pilot study was conducted to determine feasibility of implementing Prevention Produce with a tailored nutrition curriculum for women with newly diagnosed GDM. Secondary aims included measurement of change in nutrition knowledge, fruits and vegetable intake, glucose control, and incidence of related pregnancy complications. Methods Women newly diagnosed with GDM through routine obstetric care at Penn State were screened and consented. Baseline data was obtained, including a nutrition knowledge questionnaire, validated food intake survey, and fruit and vegetable preferences. Nutrition, public health and medical students collaborated to provide patients with four sessions each including nutrition lessons and vouchers for produce at a market. After completion of the program, participants repeated the questionnaires which were compared to baseline. Results To date, 6 out of 9 patients enrolled have completed the program. Of those who completed the program, 83% rated the program as excellent, felt it improved their health overall, and reported eating more fruits and vegetables. Additionally, 100% felt it helped manage their GDM. Nutrition knowledge improved in 83% of patients by an average of 14% in questionnaire scores. The majority of patients increased servings of vegetables compared to baseline, with increased preferences for peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers predominating. Conclusions Preliminary results demonstrate that patients with newly diagnosed GDM find Prevention Produce helpful for improving produce intake and health overall. Participants will be monitored for the remainder of pregnancy, with a more in-depth evaluation of glucose control and rates of related complications. Funding Sources Community Start Up Grant, Penn State Hershey Public Health Sciences.