Pilot Trial of a Novel Cooking Skills Intervention (DPPCooks) to Prevent Diabetes

Development and Pilot Evaluation of a Novel Cooking Skills Intervention to Prevent Diabetes

In this pilot trial participants will be randomized 1:1 to participate in either standard Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) vs. DPP plus a novel cooking skills intervention (DPP Cooks). The researchers hypothesize that participants randomized to DPP Cooks will have greater weight loss, better diet quality at 4 months, and greater confidence in their cooking skills and ability to implement dietary changes recommended in the DPP.

This study is a randomized pilot trial testing a novel cooking skills intervention (DPP Cooks) vs. the standard Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP). The DPP is a widely disseminated evidenced-based lifestyle behavior change program to help adults with pre-diabetes lose weight and prevent type-2 diabetes. In this trial the investigators will test whether the addition of food-agency based cooking skills classes improves the effectiveness of the DPP. This trial will take place in Baltimore, MD in collaboration with community partner DPP providers. The trial has been informed by formative work with prior DPP participants and has used a Community Based Participatory Research (CBPR) approach to developing the DPP Cooks intervention. Participants will be randomized 1:1 to participate in either standard DPP vs. DPP Cooks. The length of the trial will be 12 months and outcomes will be measured at baseline, 4 months, and 12 months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults in Baltimore City
• eligible for DPP based on Centers for Disease Control guidelines
• possession of a smart phone with camera
• can commit to 12 month study participation

Exclusion Criteria:

• current or prior diagnosis of type 1- or type 2 diabetes
• non-English speaker
• participating in another research study that may effect diabetes, diet, or weight loss
• currently pregnant