| Description |
It is widely recognized that the ‘Western diet' is associated with an increased prevalence of obesity, diabetes, CVD and many types of cancer, and effective strategies to improve such dietary patterns are a public health priority. Coupled with personal health risk, the growing obesity epidemic threatens to overwhelm a health care system that is already extended beyond its means. Despite the serious consequences caused by poor dietary choices, less than 12 percent of primary care visits include any education on nutrition. To remedy this problem, a community‐based nutrition group (CBNG) was formed in 2014. The CBNG meets weekly; members develop practical skills necessary to cook healthy meals, set realistic personal goals, and are provided the social support and education necessary to change their eating habits and combat food addiction. Although there is growing community interest in the CBNG, there is no structure to sustain this group. Without a curriculum, it has become difficult to support and teach new members who are combined with those who have been attending for several months. New members need to learn principals from previous months, and longstanding members are dissatisfied in receiving repeat information. A rotating curriculum would ensure that the program is sustainable, the education provided is evidence based, and the information provided benefits all members of the group. Objectives included, creating a six month rotating written curriculum, increasing awareness of the CBNG among local community clinics and family practice providers, and disseminating the project to peers through a professional presentation. Current, evidence based literature was reviewed pertaining to dietary guidelines and recommendations, as well as proven addiction support models. This information was organized into a book which was evaluated by content experts in nutrition, addiction theory, and health literacy as well as by members of the CBNG. After reviewing feedback, the curriculum was revised and printed into a final usable form. A professional presentation about the CBNG brought awareness of the CBNG as a resource for primary care providers, and the CBNG attendance records demonstrated that providers at the community clinics are utilizing this resource for their patients. Attendance records showed an 88% increase in CBNG attendance following the presentation. Furthermore, response from group members regarding the curriculum has been positive. |
