Behavioral Plant-Based Dietary Intervention in Latinos

A Behavioral and Plant-Based Dietary Intervention to Improve Metabolic Health and Diabetes Risk Factors in an Underserved Latino Population

The Aims of this study are 1) to develop a traditional plant-based diet that is palatable and acceptable to the Latino population and which contains the appropriate calorie and macronutrient composition needed to lose weight and improve metabolic function and; 2) to develop a culturally sensitive [based on previous literature and stakeholder input] lifestyle intervention program, that will be delivered by community health workers [CHWs], that focuses on consuming a traditional plant-based diet and overcoming the barriers to incorporating this dietary therapy as part of the family lifestyle but with a focus on the adult participant with obesity. Ultimately, in Aim 3 the investigators will conduct a 16-week randomized controlled trial (RCT) in 40 Latino adults with obesity [20 control, 20 treatment] to evaluate the intervention's: i) clinical efficacy; ii) fidelity of the implementation by CHWs; and iii) acceptance by CHWs and study participants.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Self-reported Hispanic and/or Latino heritage
• Body Mass Index (BMI) 30-42 kg/m²
• HbA1c ≤ 6.4%

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous diagnosis of diabetes
• Unstable weight (≥4% during the last 2 months prior to study enrollment)
• Severe cardiovascular disease within the 6 months prior to study enrollment
• Severe organ system dysfunction
• active substance abuse with alcohol or drugs
• Severe anemia
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Use of medications that are known to affect the study outcome measures
• Persons who are not able to grant voluntary informed consent