Headline

A food bank-based intervention improved food security and health status for individuals at risk for type 2 diabetes.

Background

People in food insecure households have poorer health and face higher risks for conditions, like type 2 diabetes and diabetes-related complications. Food banks are optimal partners for disease prevention programs because they serve nutritious foods to low-income, food insecure populations vulnerable to health issues. This article evaluates the effectiveness of a food bank-delivered intervention across 12 sites in Alameda County, California, in improving food security, dietary habits, and other risk factors for type 2 among people who screened at risk for the disease.

Findings

Participants received monthly food packages, text-based health education, and referrals to community-based programs. Food bank staff conducted surveys at the start of the intervention, the midpoint (six months), and after the intervention (12 months) on food security status, dietary intake, health-related behaviors, and body mass index. Out of the 244 individuals eligible for the study, 91% were women, 80% were Hispanic, and 92% had health insurance.

Reported food insecurity and depression decreased by 33% and 40% between the baseline and six-month surveys and physical activity increased by 52%. Half of the participants were considered highly engaged in the program. These results were generally maintained at the 12-month mark.

Policy/Program Takeaways

Food banks can play a crucial role in health prevention interventions, significantly improving health outcomes for individuals at risk of type 2 diabetes. Health systems, providers, and community organizations should consider partnering with food banks in at-risk communities to improve health outcomes and address food insecurity.