Father-Focused Program Improves Healthy Dietary Behaviors in Mexican-Heritage Fathers Long-Term

To assess long-term changes in fathers' dietary intake and behaviors following a nutrition and physical activity program.

Mexican-heritage fathers participated in a 6-week father-focused, family-centered program implemented in a border community. Promotoras used surveys to assess dietary intake of fruits and vegetables and healthy dietary behaviors at baseline (n = 42), program completion (n = 42), short-term (3-4 months postprogram, n = 24), and long-term (2.0-2.5 years postprogram, n = 36). Linear growth models tested changes in program outcomes.

Fathers' dietary intake of fruits and vegetables and healthy dietary behavior scores significantly increased across time (P < 0.05). Education level had a moderating effect on growth in vegetable intake over time (β = -0.12; P = 0.002).

A father-focused, family-centered approach may be one way to achieve lasting healthy dietary behavior changes in Latino fathers. Future researchers may consider alternative family structures (e.g., grandparent, single-parent) in program participation.