Preventing diabetes in a high-risk pregnant Arab Muslim population through lifestyle modification using the Nutrition and Exercise Lifestyle Intervention Program (NELIP).

Diabetes diagnosed during pregnancy (GDM) affects 20% of Canadians, with one of the highest risks for GDM among Arab individuals of Middle Eastern descent. GDM can add to the continuing cycle of type 2 diabetes (T2D) across two generations (parent and baby). New approaches starting early in pregnancy that help the fetal environment are urgently needed and must include culturally sensitive lifestyle changes that lead to healthy nutrition and exercise habits that will have positive benefits to prevent T2D for young pregnant individuals, and their future children. To explore the well-being of young pregnant AIMD, asked what matters most to them regarding nutrition and physical activity, and how these behaviours are influenced by religion and ethnic traditions and practices in a previous study. Based on this and by working together with them, we will design with them and modify our existing Nutrition and Exercise Lifestyle Intervention Program (NELIP) to deliver it in a different more culturally sensitive participant-centred holistic approach to reduce GDM rates and prevent future T2D in these young adults and their children. By working with the community we have created a nutrition and exercise program that includes healthy eating based on the Arab Muslim culture and religious beliefs which includes a walking program and a group dance (Lebanese Dabka) in a local Mosque on Fridays after prayers. We will continuously measure blood sugar values using a continuous glucose monitor that is attached to the back of the arm at 3 times over the course of pregnancy (12-16 weeks, 25 weeks and 34-36 weeks) for 7 days in a row, while also writing about foods eaten and writing down steps taken from a wrist wearing device. We aim to determine the best way to prevent GDM and T2D risk in this high-risk population group through a healthy lifestyle.