Digital Platform Enhances Diet Goal Setting in Diabetes Care

A significant advancement in diabetes management has been highlighted in a recent study published in the *Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior*. The research, conducted by lead author Dr. Marissa Burgermaster, Assistant Professor of Population Health at Dell Medical School and the College of Natural Sciences at The University of Texas at Austin, evaluates the effectiveness of "Nutri," a user-centered digital platform aimed at supporting personalized dietary goal-setting during routine primary care visits for patients with type 2 diabetes. Published on March 15, 2025, the study assesses the platform's feasibility and usability among healthcare providers and patients in federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) across Texas.

The study involved a cluster-randomized controlled trial with 16 primary care providers (PCPs) and 30 adult patients diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes. Findings indicated that PCPs who embraced the Nutri platform utilized it in 100% of eligible appointments, achieving a satisfaction score of 3.8 out of 5 for usability. Patients also reported positive engagement, with 81% successfully setting dietary goals with their providers, and over half of them initiating those goals within a week of the visit.

According to Dr. Burgermaster, "PCPs are on the front lines of diabetes care but often lack the time and training for effective nutrition counseling. Nutri integrates into the visit workflow and supports shared decision-making, making it easier for providers and patients to set actionable dietary goals."

The study provides a robust foundation for potential large-scale trials aimed at evaluating Nutri's effectiveness in improving dietary quality and clinical outcomes. The researchers assert that digital interventions like Nutri could significantly address nutrition care gaps, especially in low-resource settings, by enhancing the efficiency, accessibility, and personalization of dietary counseling.

This innovative platform represents a promising advancement in diabetes care, reflecting a broader trend towards incorporating technology into healthcare practices. As healthcare continues to evolve, tools like Nutri are likely to play a crucial role in empowering patients and enhancing the quality of care provided by primary care physicians. The implications of this study could lead to a paradigm shift in how dietary management is approached within primary care settings, potentially improving health outcomes for millions of individuals living with diabetes.