THE EFFECTS OF A NUTRITION INTERVENTION ON ADULTS IN A COMMUNITY PROGRAM

The Effects of a Nutrition Intervention on Adults in a Community ProgramMaddison M. Krug, Amy D. Otto, Robert J. Robertson, FACSM, Diane L. Helsel, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Obesity continues to be a national epidemic affecting many individuals in our communities today. One way to positively affect these individuals may be through a community intervention program focused on healthy eating behaviors; however, there is currently no data on the effects of this program. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of a nutrition intervention program on adults in a community program called the Community Leisure Learn Program (CLLP) at the University of Pittsburgh. METHODS: Twenty-two men and women participated in a 10-week behavioral weight-loss nutrition intervention as part of an ongoing community program that provided physical activity opportunities as a primary focus. Participants were assigned to either a Non-Interactive Nutrition Intervention Program (NINIP) group or an Interactive Nutrition Intervention Program (INIP) group. In addition to the community program activities undertaken by both groups, INIP received a weekly behavioral weight-loss class and 1200-1500 kcal/20% fat diet. Baseline to 10 week differences between the NINIP and INIP groups were determined for body weight (kg), Eating Behavior Inventory (EBI), Paffenbarger Physical Activity Questionnaire, and a nutrition exam. Mean age was 38.3 ± 7.1 years and mean body mass index (BMI) was 34.1 ± 5.5 kg/m². RESULTS: Significant baseline to 10 week differences between the INIP and NINIP groups were found for the nutrition exam scores and EBI. CONCLUSION: Significant improvements were seen in the nutrition exam and EBI for the INIP group. However, there was not a significant difference in weight change and physical activity between the NINIP and INIP groups. A longer program with a physical activity focus may be necessary to achieve significant weight and physical activity changes. Supported by the University of Pittsburgh School of Education Student Research Grant