Slavic Women’s Understanding of Diabetes Dietary Self-Management and Reported Dietary Behaviors

Background Slavic women with type 2 diabetes are an understudied group for issues related to dietary self-management for diabetes and heart health. Methods A single home or extension office visit was conducted with ten Slavic women for an individual in-depth interview, clinical and physical assessment, and a survey questionnaire. Results Participants were in poor diabetes control. They reported changes in traditional foods to better support diabetes control and heart health. Most appeared responsive to their health care provider’s recommendations and valued cooking classes from a Russian-speaking educator. Barriers included perceived expense of a healthy diet. Cultural bridges between patients and their caregivers were critical supports for self-management. Discussion and Conclusions Support of Slavic women with diabetes should include health care providers knowledgeable about Slavic dietary and health concepts, Russian-speaking educators who can bridge between traditional foodways and the U.S. food system, and appropriate involvement of the patient’s social support network.