Date of Award

5-2025

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nutrition Science

Department

Health Science and Human Ecology

First Reader/Committee Chair

Chen-Maynard, Dorothy

Abstract

Background & Aims: Diabetes disproportionately affects minority populations, including Jamaicans affected by dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and socioeconomic factors. Culturally relevant interventions are essential for promoting sustainable health behaviors to prevent diabetes. This project developed a Jamaican-inspired cookbook with nutrition education to improve dietary habits among Jamaicans to avoid diabetes.

Methods: The project titled Authentic Flavors: Healthy Jamaican Dishes for People with Pre-Diabetes, a cookbook and resources featuring 34 modified Jamaican recipes with nutrient-dense, low-glycemic ingredients to prevent rapid spikes in blood glucose. Participants were recruited from Jamaican community; and they completed an online nutrition education with pre- and post-tests via Qualtrics. They also tested and evaluated the recipes for acceptability.

Results: Thirty-four out of 54 subjects participated (73.5% female, mean age 40.3 years). Most (64.7%) had no dietary restrictions, while 20.6% followed vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets. Preliminary findings of pre- and post-test showed increased awareness of diabetes prevention and greater confidence in making culturally relevant, healthier food choices. Also, participants highly rated the cookbook for accuracy, ease of preparation, cultural authenticity, and health benefits.

Conclusions: The Jamaican-inspired cookbook with resources and education program effectively addressed cultural barriers to healthy eating and improved nutrition knowledge and behaviors. This study highlights the importance of culturally tailored resources and interventions for diabetes prevention among individuals from different countries and regions. Future research should explore long-term dietary adherence and health outcomes using culturally appropriate resources and education material targeting population based on their traditional practices.

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