O11 A Comprehensive Plant-Based Lifestyle Medicine Program Improves Nutrition Behaviors

Abstract

Objective To determine whether participation in a lifestyle medicine intervention is associated with improved nutrition behaviors. Use of Theory or Research Past research has demonstrated the effectiveness of plant-based diets in improving health. Target Audience Adults in New York City (NYC) with type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, excess weight, and/or heart disease. Program Description The Plant-Based Lifestyle Medicine (PBLM) Program is a pilot program designed to help individuals reduce their cardiometabolic risk through lifestyle changes. Providers with expertise in plant-based nutrition (physicians, registered dietician, health coach) educate and support patients in adopting a whole-foods plant-based diet and other healthful lifestyle changes. Patients meet individually with each provider to set goals and monitor progress. Group visits supplement one-on-one visits, include education and skills building, and foster peer-to-peer support. Evaluation Methods All PBLM participants were invited to participate in the evaluation; 131 agreed to be contacted; 85% provided consent. Data came from surveys of participants at baseline, 3-months, and 6-months (83%, 85%, 80% response rates respectively). Surveys measured nutrition knowledge, dietary intake, self-rated health, barriers to adopting a plant-based diet, and motivation and confidence in adhering to a plant-based diet. Results Participants were on average 53 years old, mostly female, roughly two-thirds were Black or White, and the majority completed college or more. Participants demonstrated statistically significant short-term improvements and maintained longer-term improvements in all domains of interest including nutrition knowledge; barriers to adopting a plant-based diet; motivation and confidence in plant-based diet adherence; increased consumption of non-animal protein and fruits/vegetables; decreased consumption of animal protein, sweets, and oil; and self-rated health. Consumption of whole grains was the only food category to not show improvements longer-term. Conclusions PBLM shows promise in improving participants’ nutrition behaviors within a healthcare setting. Additional studies are needed to demonstrate the effectiveness of changing nutrition behaviors and achieving positive clinical outcomes through participation in a lifestyle medicine intervention. Funding NYC Health and Hospitals Corporation.