Evaluating diabetes self-management education and support services delivered alone and in combination with produce packages at a Texas Food Bank

Top Things to Know

Education alone can be a powerful nutritional intervention.

Produce packages may enhance dietary behavior but need optimization.

Food banks are viable platforms for delivering nutrition-based care.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

This study evaluated two diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) programs delivered by a Texas food bank (DSMES alone (DHO) and DSMES plus produce packages (DHO+)). Both groups showed significant improvements in HbA1c, BMI, diabetes distress, self-efficacy, knowledge, and vegetable intake. However, the DHO group had a greater average reduction in HbA1c (−0.6%) and showed significant gains in food security and medication adherence, while the DHO+ group had a significant increase in fruit intake. Over 95% of participants rated both programs as “excellent,” though the added value of produce packages remains unclear.