Effects of a Self-directed Nutrition Intervention among Adults with Arthritis

Chronic diseases are common among adults. A healthy diet may be beneficial for managing the consequences of such conditions. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a self-directed nutrition program on dietary behaviors among adults with chronic health conditions. As part of a larger trial examining the effects of a self-directed exercise program, participants with arthritis were randomized to a 12-week self-directed exercise or nutrition intervention. Self-reported fruit and vegetable consumption, fat- and fiber-related behaviors were assessed at baseline, 12 weeks, and 9 months. Repeated measures ANCOVAs examined Group x Time changes in dietary behaviors. Effect sizes were computed. Participants (n=321) were, on average, 56.5±10.5 years old, had a mean BMI of 32.9±8.3 kg/m 2 , and had 2.0±1.0 chronic health conditions; 88% were female, 65% White, 88% had at least some college education, and 62% married. There were significant Group x Time interactions favoring the nutrition group at 12 weeks for all dietary behaviors (p