Produce Prescription for Type 2 Diabetes

(GARDEN-CARDIO Trial)

This trial aims to determine if monthly vouchers for fruits and vegetables, combined with dietary education, can help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar. Participants will split into two groups, each experiencing both normal diabetes care and the produce voucher program at different times. Researchers will track changes in blood sugar levels, diet quality, and other health factors. People with type 2 diabetes who struggle to control blood sugar (HbA1c above 8%) and face food insecurity may be well-suited for this study. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative ways to improve diabetes management and diet quality.

Research shows that programs providing vouchers for fruits and vegetables are generally safe and well-received. Studies have found that these programs help people with type 2 diabetes eat more fruits and vegetables and improve their health without causing serious side effects.

For instance, one study found that using these vouchers lowered blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, indicating the program's benefits and safety. Another study demonstrated that these programs improve participants' access to food and enhance overall health.

Researchers are excited about the Produce Prescription for Type 2 Diabetes because it offers a fresh approach by integrating fruit and vegetable vouchers with dietary education. Unlike standard treatments that often rely on medication to control blood sugar levels, this method emphasizes nutritional changes that may improve overall health. By potentially increasing access to healthy foods and promoting better dietary habits, this approach could offer a sustainable and empowering way to manage diabetes.

Research has shown that programs providing vouchers for fruits and vegetables can improve diet and health for individuals with type 2 diabetes. In this trial, participants will be randomized into two groups: one group will receive the produce prescription intervention, which includes fruit and vegetable vouchers and standardized dietary education, for 5 months before switching to usual care. The other group will begin with usual care for 5 months before switching to the produce prescription intervention. One study found that using these vouchers significantly reduced A1c levels, which measure blood sugar control. Another study found that these programs help individuals consume more fruits and vegetables, manage blood sugar, and reduce waist size. Additionally, providing vouchers increased vegetable intake and improved food security, meaning individuals had better access to healthy foods. These findings suggest that access to fresh produce can help individuals manage their diabetes more effectively.²⁴⁶⁷⁸