Presenters
Summary
A 12-month prescription food program was developed for patients of a family medicine clinic with support from a partnering community agency and university-based research team. Families ranging in size from 2 to 6 members participated in the year long program to improve family eating habits. Participants received individualized nutritional education and coaching throughout the program, as well as grocery store gift cards for purchasing fresh or frozen produce. Participants established at least one lifestyle goal focused on improving overall health. Clinic staff were in contact with participants bimonthly to review previous food choices and provide encouragement regarding the purchase and preparation of fresh produce. Medical appointments every three months included an in-depth review of behavioral goals, and a general health assessment. Participants reported significant improvement in overall wellbeing, development of healthier eating habits, and achievement of personal wellness goals.
Workshop Downloads
Objectives
- Describe the implementation of a prescription food program
- Identify barriers to making healthy food choices on a limited budget
- Discuss factors that can motivate families to change eating habits.
References
- Hurley, K.M.; Yousafzai, A.K.; & Lopez-Boo, F. (2016). Early Child Development and Nutrition: A Review of the Benefits and Challenges of Implementing Integrated Interventions. Journal of Advanced Nutrition, 7, 357-363.
- http://www.countyhealthrankings.org/app/colorado/2015/rankings/pueblo/county/outcomes/overall/snapshot
- http://health.gov/2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines and http://choosemyplate.gov
- Sahoo, K.; Sahoo, B.; Choudhury, A.K.; Sofi, N.Y.; Kumar, R.; & Bhadoria, A.S. (2015). Childhood Obesity: Causes and Consequences. Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, 4(2), 187-192.
- Thapa, J.R. and Lyford, C.P. (2018). Nudges to Increase Fruits and Vegetables Consumption: Results from a Field Experiment. Journal of Child Nutrition and Management, 42 (1).
