Breaking Bread, Breaking Barriers: Qualitative Insights into Support and Challenges in Culinary Medicine and Medical Nutrition Therapy Delivery for Diabetes Management

PurposeThis study explores patient experience in dietary behavior change after nutrition and culinary medicine interventions.DesignThe qualitative study uses in-depth, semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis.SettingResearchers collected participant feedback after nutrition interventions in an urban, safety-net health clinic.SubjectsTwenty-six adults with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes participated in nutrition or culinary medicine interventions and follow-up interviews.MethodStudy team members completed phone interviews focused on understanding support, challenges, and barriers during nutrition interventions for dietary change. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded using NVivo software. Data analysis based on size and distribution of code applications led to thematic content and patterns of experience.ResultsTwo key lessons emerged: (1) Participants valued practical nutrition, culinary, and technical support from the nutrition and research team members. Participants appreciated how team members alleviated doubts and filled knowledge gaps through non-judgmental listening and motivation that emphasized flexibility. (2) Participants valued personalized support to overcome barriers and challenges engaging in nutrition education and dietary change. Barriers included food costs, childcare, technology, and competing health demands, and some of these could be overcome with tailored support.ConclusionIntegrating medical nutrition therapy and culinary medicine alongside food access resources may address upstream determinants of diet-sensitive disease. Programs that emphasize social connection and support, cultural relevance, and flexibility may be especially effective in safety-net settings.