A Place for Plant-Based Nutrition in US Medical School Curriculum: A Survey-Based Study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Nutritional Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Obesity-related chronic diseases pose a significant public health challenge.
• Physician education in nutrition is often insufficient to address these challenges.
• Whole-foods, plant-based (WFPB) diets are increasingly recognized for their health benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess medical students' and residents' perceptions of current nutrition education.
• To evaluate their views on whole-foods, plant-based (WFPB) diets.
• To identify needs for nutrition-focused curricular reform in medical training.

Main Methods:

• An original survey was administered to medical students and family medicine residents.
• Quantitative and qualitative data were collected on nutrition education perceptions.
• The survey explored views on WFPB diets and curricular reform ideas.

Main Results:

• Only 22% of respondents felt they received sufficient nutrition education.
• 41% believed WFPB diets should be a focus of medical training.
• Trainees suggested increased instruction on WFPB diets, patient counseling, and dedicated nutrition courses.

Conclusions:

• Nutrition education in US medical training requires significant improvement.
• Integrating WFPB diet education could enhance physicians' ability to manage chronic diseases.
• Further research into incorporating plant-predominant diets into medical curricula is warranted.