A Faith-Based Program to Improve Nutrition Awareness and Health Literacy
Research Poster Health & Life Sciences 2025 Graduate ExhibitionPresentation by Edna Nti
Exhibition Number 154
Abstract
Background: Limited health literacy is linked to increased risk of nutrition related chronic diseases and disproportionately affects older adults. Nutrition literacy plays an important role in improving health through increased awareness. Faith-based organizations contribute to population health by promoting healthy nutrition and outcomes. Local Problem: About 60% of adults at Westmont Presbyterian Church live with one or more nutrition related chronic disease while 40% are older adults aged 70 and over. However, there was no access to free nutrition literacy programs in the local community. Methods: A health literacy program which included a two-hour health fair nutrition education event and nutrition education resources. Participants completed the fruit and vegetable All-Day screener tool, U.S. Food and Drug Administration education pre- and post-tests, and daily fruit and vegetable log for evaluation. Interventions: Each participant completed the health fair and received weekly evidence-based nutrition education handouts, weekly flyers with scripture inspired motivational messages, healthy recipes, and health tips for six weeks at follow-up. Results: Participants showed an increased knowledge in healthy eating, and fruit and vegetable consumption improved from pre-to-postintervention. Although the paired t-test was not statistically significant, there was an increase in Nutrition Facts label literacy indicating clinical significance. Conclusion: A faith-based health literacy program is an effective means to increase knowledge about healthy eating, and fruit and vegetable intake. Church policy to serve fruits and vegetables at events will promote program adoption and sustainability. Project is easily replicable. Keywords: Faith-based, health literacy, nutrition literacy, health promotion
Importance
This faith-based quality improvement project was implemented to improve nutrition and health literacy in a local church. It promoted the importance of a higher intake of fruits and vegetables and improved the understanding of Nutrition Facts labels. The project highlighted the importance of growing nutrition awareness using health education and evidence-based resources. An increased knowledge can lead to lifestyle modifications and support healthy nutrition goals. The outcomes from the project provide valuable insights into how faith-based organizations can effectively promote health initiatives. Replicating these findings will inspire similar initiatives across various faith-based organizations and increase the overall impact on public health.