Moving beyond information: evaluation of a nutrition education tool based on a theoretical model

This study investigated the relative effectiveness of a nutrition education brochure based on a theoretical model versus a more traditional information-based brochure in getting subjects to accurately assess daily calcium intake, make a plan to increase intake if needed, and to implement the plan.

A randomized trial involving 216 women between the ages of 19-49y. Subjects were randomly assigned to a group which received educational materials containing an interactive brochure designed using the Motivation Generating model (Calcium CalculatorS), or to a group which received a calcium information brochure (An Appetite for Good Health). Within a two week period the women were contacted by telephone to assess use of materials, calcium intake assessment information, and plans for dietary change.

Subjects were recruited at five fitness centres in the Vancouver area. The research was conducted by the Institute of Health Promotion Research at the University of British Columbia.

Results indicated significantly greater numbers of subjects conducting self- assessment and increased group accuracy for calcium intake assessment in subjects using the interactive brochure.

Use of a theoretical model designed to create behaviour change such as the Motivation Generating Model can increase specific behaviours which may lead to improvements in dietary consumption.