Transtheoretical model-based nutritional interventions in adolescents: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Adolescent dietary intake is often inadequate, necessitating effective nutritional interventions.
• The Transtheoretical Model (TTM) categorizes individuals by readiness to change, a framework proven effective in health education.
• This review focuses on the TTM's role in adolescent nutritional interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the evidence strength for using the Transtheoretical Model (TTM) in adolescent nutritional interventions.
• To assess the effectiveness of TTM-based interventions on adolescent dietary intake.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines.
• Searched multiple databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, etc.) for relevant studies.
• Included randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental designs using TTM for adolescent nutrition, assessing quality with the EPHPP tool.

Main Results:

• 14 studies were included, with interventions varying in duration and incorporating digital technology.
• Positive outcomes included improved fruit and vegetable consumption and reduced fat intake.
• Some interventions successfully moved participants through stages of change, with one achieving action/maintenance stages for all participants.

Conclusions:

• The Transtheoretical Model (TTM) is a viable and flexible strategy for enhancing adolescent dietary intake.
• Current applications often focus on the 'stage of change' construct; further research should explore all TTM constructs.
• Comparative studies with other behavior-change theories are recommended to fully understand TTM's effectiveness.