Low-income individuals, who are significantly affected by diabetes and unhealthy eating habits, may see improvements in disease management and prognosis through digital interventions. These strategies could potentially address some of the obstacles to healthy eating that this demographic typically experiences. Despite these potential benefits, there is limited data on the efficacy of such interventions in disadvantaged populations.
A comprehensive systematic review was performed to evaluate the impact of digital interventions on dietary behaviors and health outcomes related to nutrition in disadvantaged individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Various databases were utilized to find studies published from 1990 to 2022, which focused on digitally delivered nutrition interventions for this specific population. The quality and eligibility of the studies were independently verified by two reviewers.
Efficacy and Behavioral Outcomes Among Disadvantaged Populations on Digital Interventions
Out of the 2434 studies found, only 10 met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. The interventions were delivered through two digital platforms: web and messaging services. Notably, half of the studies reported significant improvements in dietary behaviors, such as healthier food choices, increased dietary knowledge and skills, and enhanced self-efficacy.
In addition, 70% of these studies examined changes in blood glucose levels. Remarkably, 57% of these studies reported significant reductions in hemoglobin A1C levels, ranging from 0.3% to 1.8%. The most common behavioral change techniques identified in all studies included instruction on behavior performance, information about health consequences, and social support.
Overall, the review provides initial evidence for the effectiveness of digital interventions in promoting healthy eating behaviors among disadvantaged individuals with T2D, which is a critical dietary necessity for changes in clinical metabolic parameters. Further research is required to understand how disadvantaged people with T2D can benefit more from digital approaches and to identify the specific characteristics of successful digital interventions for encouraging healthy behaviors among disadvantaged communities.
Original Article DOI: 10.2196/42595
Original title: Digitally Delivered Interventions to Improve Nutrition Behaviors Among Resource-Poor and Ethnic Minority Groups With Type 2 Diabetes: Systematic Review
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