A vivar! A plant-based diabetes prevention pilot program for older Hispanics in South Texas

Abstract

Purpose: A community-oriented culturally sensitive plant-based nutritional pilot program for older South Texas Hispanics was designed to determine if participation in a three-month plant-based diabetes prevention program would result in healthy dietary changes. Method: A pre-test post-test diabetes prevention initiative was designed to promote healthy nutrition and discover changes in dietary knowledge and behavior. Results: Statistically significant increased knowledge (t(21) = -3.43, p = .003) and self-reported consumption of plant-based foods (t(21) = -5.42, p = .000) was discovered existing surveys and project director designed questionnaires in a convenience sample of 22 older Hispanics who attended two adult recreational centers in Laredo, Texas. Conclusions and Implications for Practice: Collaborative health projects can be provided within community infrastructures that may positively impact the health of individuals by increasing knowledge and adopting lifestyle dietary changes. Further research is needed to explore gender variations and longitudinal outcomes.