The Promotion Of Nutrient-Dense Foods In Andasibe, Madagascar

ASU Author/Contributor (non-ASU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Emily R. Owen (Creator)
Institution
Appalachian State University (ASU )
Web Site: https://library.appstate.edu/
Advisor
Alisha Farris

Abstract: Purpose: Due to a lack of resources, Madagascar has high levels of poverty and malnutrition. Nutrition education has shown to be an effective approach to increasing health in low-resource areas worldwide. The purpose of this study was to pilot a tailored nutrition education program to improve diet diversity and health promoting practices in Andasibe, Madagascar. Methods: Twenty caregivers were recruited. Diet diversity and nutrition knowledge were assessed using a pre/post-test design. Nutritional status was assessed using height, weight, mid-upper-arm circumference measurements, and Raman spectroscopy technology. The intervention consisted of individualized counseling sessions with education materials. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired sample t-tests. Results: Significant increases were found in the consumption of vitamin A-rich foods for adults (p = 0.01), and the use of treated water to wash fruits and vegetables before consumption (p = 0.01). All but one caregiver (95.0%) made dietary changes by increasing diet diversity and by focusing on colorful foods. Conclusions: Findings suggested nutrition education was effective in increasing nutrition knowledge. Further, an individualized approach to education in a low resource country can improve diet diversity, nutrition knowledge, and health practices with potential to increase the consumption of foods associated with micronutrient deficiencies.

Additional Information

Publication
Thesis
Owen, E. (2020). The Promotion Of Nutrient-Dense Foods In Andasibe, Madagascar. Unpublished Master’s Thesis. Appalachian State University, Boone, NC.
Language: English
Date: 2020
Keywords
Nutrition education, Diet diversity, Malnutrition, Vitamin A, Iron

Email this document to