P5 A Mediterranean Diet Toolkit for Extension Educators: A Pilot Test

Abstract

Objective Educate consumers on the Mediterranean diet (MD) and associated health benefits and encourage personal consumption of more healthy foods from the MD and fewer less healthy/processed foods. Package/organize the educational materials to meet educators’ needs for consistent and feasible delivery. Use of Theory or Research The MD is a well-researched and popular topic in nutrition. Long-term population studies indicate health benefits such as reduced risk of diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome in those following a MD. The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines lists this diet as a recommended healthy eating pattern. Target Audience Adult Colorado residents. Program Description The MD toolkit includes program marketing materials, program evaluations, PowerPoint presentation, hands-on activities, supplemental handouts, recipes, and a short video. The program can be delivered in two hours. Evaluation Methods Educators administered post surveys in person; measures included knowledge, intent to change, and workshop feedback. Researchers sent follow up surveys online via Qualtrics one month after program completion; measures included self-report behavior change. Educators provided feedback on program implementation. Results Most frequently, participants (n = 174) learned about parts of the MD, health benefits, and/or how to follow it (29%). Participants agreed/strongly agreed that as a result of the program they intend to include more fruits and vegetables (77%), more olive oil (72%), other protein sources more often than red meat (65%), and less processed foods (65%) in their diet. One month out, participants (n = 69) reported that as a result of the program, they now include more fruits and vegetables (72%), more olive oil (59%), other protein sources more often than red meat (70%), and less processed foods (84%) in their diet. Conclusions The MD toolkit provides Extension educators in Colorado a tool to feasibly and consistently deliver nutrition education on the MD and lifestyle. Consumption of more healthy foods from the MD and less processed foods can have long-term health benefits for the consumer. Funding None.