Food Studies Commons^™

The Registered Dietitian Nutritionist’S Implementation Of Dysphagia Screening In Clinical Practice: A Commentary, Nicole Wiksten, Holly Estes-Doetsch, Laura C. Boucher, Sarah Rusnak, Kristen M. Roberts

Journal of Dietetic Education

Background: The Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) amended the competencies for the future education model (FEM) in dietetic education to include competency 3.6 stating that the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) must be able to "Initiate and conduct bedside swallow screenings". There is no clear process for RDNs to implement dysphagia screening in practice or academia. The aim of this review is to inform clinicians and educators on current literature discussing current RDN and speech language pathology approaches to dysphagia screening and to provide a proposed curriculum for implementation of competency 3.6 in clinical practice and academia.

Assessing And Addressing Cultural Competence And Cultural Humility In Dietetic Education, Zoe Duran, Nicholas Slagel, Lisa Caldwell, Katie Kage

Journal of Dietetic Education

Limited theory-informed, dietetic-specific resources are available to guide the development, evaluation, and refinement of culturally competent (CC) curricula. This pilot study used a mixed-methods, theory-informed approach to evaluate CC integration within an undergraduate dietetics curriculum and examine the applicability of existing CC self-assessment tools for dietetic students. A senior-level undergraduate community nutrition curriculum was evaluated using the Tool for Assessing Cultural Competence Training (TACCT), guided by the Campinha-Bacote Model of Cultural Competence in Healthcare Delivery. James Banks’ Model of Multicultural Curriculum Reform was then applied to refine curricular content and learning activities. In addition, 74 students enrolled in a didactic …

Virtual Reality: The Future Of Didactic And Experiential Education For Nutrition And Dietetics, Michael Holik, Dexter Richardson

Journal of Dietetic Education

The integration of virtual reality (VR) into nutrition and dietetics education provides an innovative answer to challenges in accessing experiential learning. This study examined student perceptions of immersive VR experiences designed to simulate hospital foodservice operations and nutrition counseling sessions, guided by the Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DOI). A quasi-experimental design involved 55 participants who engaged with 360° VR modules featuring interactive elements, avatars representing key healthcare roles, and embedded critical-thinking questions. Results demonstrated strong support for VR’s educational value across DOI’s five key attributes: relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, and observability. Participants reported enhanced understanding of registered dietitian roles, …

Editors' Message, Volume 4, Issue 2, Diana Cuy Castellanos, M Elizabeth (Beth) Miller

Journal of Dietetic Education

In this edition, you will find research on the use of virtual reality in experiential food service learning, instruments to assess cultural competency and humility in dietetic students, and tools for measuring empathy—an area of growing importance in dietetic pedagogy. Additionally, this issue explores the inclusion of disability-related curricula in education programs and features a commentary on RDNs implementing swallow screenings within clinical practice, highlighting how this procedure falls within an RDN’s scope of practice when supported by proper training and demonstrated competency.

Cover, Table Of Contents, About The Journal

Journal of Dietetic Education

No abstract provided.

Feeding The Future: Prenatal Dietary Effects On Offspring Neurodevelopment, Emma Whatley

Senior Honors Theses

This study examined the effects of prenatal Western (WD) and Mediterranean (MD) diets on offspring metabolic, cognitive, and neurobiological outcomes in a preclinical mouse model. Working and long-term memory performance, dendritic morphology, and gene expression were assessed using behavioural tests (CAL, YMRM, WM) and Golgi-Cox analyses. Behavioural effects were minimal, with female MD offspring showing improved memory performance under standard conditions. Metabolic findings showed effects on body weight and blood glucose. Dendritic morphology was largely unchanged; however, subtle, sex-specific differences were observed. Differential gene expression between MD and WD suggests a role for future environmental stressors. Prenatal diet affects molecular …

The Effect Of A Low-Glycemic Index Diet On Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Symptoms Among University-Aged Women, Angelika A. Gonzalez, Annalise M. Sankar, Noelle D. Nguyen

Department of Nutrition Student Projects

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is an endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age and is associated with insulin resistance, menstrual irregularities, hyperandrogenism, and metabolic dysfunction. Dietary modifications targeting glycemic response have emerged as a nonpharmacologic approach for PCOS management. However, long-term randomized controlled trials targeting young adult populations remain limited.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate long-term effects of adherence to a low-glycemic index diet on the frequency and severity of PCOS symptoms among female college students ages 18-22. This 12-month randomized controlled trial will recruit participants meeting the Rotterdam criteria from university health clinics. Participants will be randomly …

Transforming Dietetics Curriculum: A Culinary Nutrition Certificate Grounded In Competency-Based Innovation, Jennifer R. Watson, Rachel C. Sinley, Jangwoo Jo

Journal of Dietetic Education

Culinary nutrition has become a promising interdisciplinary field that combines culinary arts and nutritional science to enhance health outcomes through practical, food-based education. As the healthcare landscape increasingly emphasizes preventive care, dietitians are well-positioned to lead culinary nutrition initiatives; however, formal training opportunities remain scarce. To address this gap, Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) created a new Culinary Nutrition Certificate that combines experiential cooking coursework from the School of Hospitality with core nutrition education from the Department of Nutrition. This paper places the certificate within the broader context of culinary nutrition and dietetics education, emphasizing the importance of …

Editors’ Message, Diana Cuy Castellanos, M Elizabeth (Beth) Miller

Journal of Dietetic Education

This edition of the Journal of Dietetic Education highlights specialized skill training and attainment and interprofessional collaboration in dietetic students. Our featured original research explores how we prepare students for the complexities of current practice—ranging from the digital documentation of the Nutrition Care Process (NCP) to the integration of culinary medicine.

Cover, Table Of Contents, About The Journal

Journal of Dietetic Education

No abstract provided.

Examining Weight Bias Attitude Changes After Exposure To A Brief Photovoice Assignment, Gretchen L. George, Hillary L. Roberts, Kristin Rose, Madison Clemens, Kate G. Burt

Journal of Dietetic Education

Weight bias is present among pre-health professional students (e.g., nutrition, dietetics, nursing, physical therapy, medicine). Educators need support and guidelines about how to enhance learning through engaging assignments while also meeting accreditation requirements. This pilot study examined the impact of an innovative weight bias assignment using photovoice and reflection within existing nutrition education courses, measured through pre-post assessments from the Fat Attitudes Assessment Toolkit. While not all subscales showed significant change, improvements in the Fat Acceptance and Attribution Complexity Composites suggest these methods may be effective in shifting attitudes about fatness. Further research is needed to assess the long-term impact …

Cover, Table Of Contents, About The Journal, Diana Cuy Castellanos, M Elizabeth (Beth) Miller

Journal of Dietetic Education

No abstract provided.

Editors' Message, Diana Cuy Castellanos, M Elizabeth (Beth) Miller

Journal of Dietetic Education

No abstract provided.

Intermittent Fasting For Metabolic Syndrome Management, Tony Laborde

Lynchburg Journal of Medical Science

This paper reviews the potential of intermittent fasting as a non-pharmacological therapeutic approach to the treatment of metabolic syndrome (MetS). MetS is a global health problem with risk factors that include obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and high triglycerides that predispose to cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Traditional treatment approaches, including pharmacological agents and lifestyle modification, are typically of short-term benefit. Intermittent fasting, with its scheduled cycles of eating and fasting, presents another strategy for improving weight control, insulin sensitivity, lipid profiles, and blood pressure. Various intermittent fasting regimens, including time-restricted feeding and alternate-day fasting, have …

Relationship Between Nutritional Knowledge And Eating Disorder Risk Levels, Valeria Fernandez

Human Nutrition and Hospitality Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

The prevalence of disordered eating is a critical public health concern that often progresses towards the development of a diagnosable eating disorder (ED). This, in turn, has detrimental physical and psychological consequences for individuals. Organizations such as the American Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) have recognized nutrition education as a crucial component of prevention and recovery. Determining the extent to which nutrition knowledge is related to risk factors for EDs is worth investigating due to its implications for healthcare approaches – especially among adolescent and young adult populations. The goal …

The Impact Of An Iron-Rich Diet On Fatigue In Menstruating Women With Non-Anemic Iron Deficiency, Meagan Seraydar, Lauren Latimer, Sam Miragliatto

Department of Nutrition Student Projects

Fatigue without diagnosed anemia is prevalent in menstruating women, with iron deficiency being a potential contributor. While iron supplementation is a standard intervention, dietary sources of iron may offer a sustainable alternative. This study aims to assess the impact of an iron-rich diet on fatigue levels in menstruating women. A 12-week randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be conducted, assigning participants to either an iron-rich diet group or a control group following their usual diet without specific iron recommendations. Fatigue will be measured using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) at baseline, six weeks, and twelve weeks, alongside iron status biomarkers, including …

Priming For Practice: A Teaching Strategy, Jennifer Tomesko, Diane L. Rigassio Radler

Journal of Dietetic Education

Authors present a brief educational teaching strategy.

Use Of Simulation In Dietetic Internships: A Qualitative Exploration Of Program Director Attitudes And Motivations, Theresa B. O'Reilly, Amy J. Nwora, Megan Whelan, Mary-Pat Maciolek

Journal of Dietetic Education

The use of simulation holds promise for the future of dietetics education for its use as an alternative for up to 30% of the 1,000 supervised practice hours for the training of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. Even more so, simulation is a teaching tool. When done well, simulation can challenge students in a safe environment where they can receive constructive feedback from expert guides and meaningfully reflect on their learning. The purpose of this study was to interview dietetic internship (DI) program directors on their attitudes and motivations on the use of simulation in their programs, targeting the heavily program-congested states …

Cover, Editor's Message, Table Of Contents, Diana Cuy Castellanos

Journal of Dietetic Education

No abstract provided.

Sensory Evaluation And Consumer Acceptance Of A Protein Enriched Energy Bar, Brennah T. Groves

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD)

ABSTRACT

Sensory Evaluation and Consumer Acceptance of a Protein Enriched Energy Bar

Brennah Groves

This study evaluated the sensory properties and consumer acceptance of a protein enriched energy bar. The objectives of this study were to 1) formulate a high-protein energy bar containing at least 20 g of protein per 100 g serving, and 2) determine whether increasing the protein content in an energy bar would enhance the sensory evaluation and improve consumer acceptance among collegiate athletes. The control energy bar featured a shortbread base, date caramel with whey protein, a nougat layer, and a chocolate coating. Additional collagen protein …

Influences Of Social Media On Nutrition Perceptions And Body Image Among Female College Students: A Study Of Health Impacts And Behavioral Responses, Kerri Mcclanahan

Human Nutrition and Hospitality Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

Social media use is increasing among young adults with an average use of over four hours per day. The validity of dietary content on social media is questionable and can cause impacts on several factors. This research focused on exploring how female college students' social media use impacts their nutrition knowledge, diet choices, and body image. Through the use of a survey, 332 participants completed this research. It was found that social media can cause changes in body image, both positive and negative. Additionally, the results showed that social media impacted the participants’ dietary decisions. It was also found that …

Are College Students' Grocery Shopping Habits Consistent With The Mediterranean Diet Guidelines? A Preliminary Report, Montana Grace Ayala

Master's Theses

The number of people diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes mellitus continues to grow. The Mediterranean diet has been shown to reduce the risks of developing heart disease. Fruit and vegetable consumption is low across the country. Improving fruit and vegetable consumption for adults might start with improving intake earlier in life because it can influence better food habits. Following the Mediterranean diet at a young age can prevent chronic diseases from developing. It is well known that college students have diets that are not consistent with healthy eating habits and can be influenced by the need for …

Health Outcomes Reported By Healthcare Providers And Clients Of A Community-Based Medically Tailored Meal Program, Jessica M Sautter, Jule Anne Henstenburg, Adrian Glass Crafford, Ian Rowe-Nicholls, Victor S Diaz, Kaitlyn Ann Bartholomew, Julia S Evans, Maria R Johnson, Jeffrey Zhou, Deeksha Ajeya

Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine Departmental Research

BACKGROUND: Medically tailored meal (MTM) programs provide home-delivered meals to people living with serious illness and poor nutritional status. Client outcome studies have found evidence of decreased healthcare utilization and cost savings associated with MTM program participation, and inconclusive evidence of change in health measures. The purpose of this study was to use a novel observational framework to describe the client profile and change in health outcomes using routinely collected health and program data from a community-based MTM program at MANNA (Philadelphia, PA).

METHODS: Clients reported their self-rated health and experiences of food insecurity and malnutrition. Healthcare providers reported clients' …

Bridging Implementation Science And Human-Centered Design: Developing Tailored Interventions For Healthier Eating In Restaurants, Melissa Fuster, Shelby Hipol, Terry Tk Huang, Uriyoán Colón-Ramos, Cara Conaboy, Rosa Abreu, Lourdes Castro Mortillaro, Margaret A. Handley

Publications and Research

Restaurants are important institutions in the communities’ economy with the potential to promote healthier foods but have been under-engaged in public health nutrition efforts. In particular, independently owned, minority-serving and minority-owned restaurants, remain under-represented in nutrition promotion efforts despite disproportionate burdens of diet-related health outcomes among minority populations. Addressing this gap in engagement, we undertook a process of co-designing and implementing healthy eating-focused interventions in two Latin American restaurants in New York City, combining the Behavior Change Wheel intervention development framework with a Human-Centered Design approach. Restaurant owners and chefs were involved in the research synthesis and solution development processes, …

Exploring The Impact Of Weekly Farmers’ Market In The City Of Carson, Ca In Promoting Equitable Access To Locally Grown Fruits And Vegetables, Daisy Lopez Valdez M.P.H.

Master's Projects and Capstones

Despite their many benefits to the community, farmers’ markets suffer from several important limitations. This paper will provide guidance on practices and interventions that can improve the effectiveness of the local Carson, California farmers’ market, known as the South Bay Pavilion Farmer’s Market, in increasing equitable access to and consumption of locally grown fruits and vegetables with the goal of reducing obesity and diabetes rates among residents.

The needs and assets assessment developed will evaluate the success of the City of Carson South Bay Pavilion Farmers’ Market and provide recommendations based on the findings. The proposed research will follow an …

Using Item Response Theory To Identify Key Symptoms Of Insomnia In A Sample Of University Students With Probable Eating Disorders, Kara A. Christensen Pacella, Brianne N. Richson, Nicole A. Short, Angeline R. Bottera, Leah A. Irish, Victoria L. Perko, Kelsie T. Forbush

Psychology Faculty Research

Purpose

Researchers have theorized that interactions between appetitive and circadian disruptions result in increased eating disorder (ED) symptoms and insomnia. However, it is unclear how specific insomnia symptoms present among people with EDs and if the latent structure of insomnia in this population is similar to that of people with insomnia disorder.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of data collected on ED and insomnia symptoms using a subset of students with probable EDs at a large Midwestern American university. Item response theory (IRT) for polytomous items was performed to identify item difficulty, discrimination, and information parameters for the Insomnia …

Nutrition And Dietetics Educators’ Experiences Using Systems Thinking In Teaching, Erin E. Bergquist, Lyndi Buckingham-Schutt, Scott Smalley, Christina G. Campbell, Awoke Dollisso, Shuyang Qu

Journal of Dietetic Education

Objective: Describe educator experiences teaching systems thinking in nutrition and dietetics education. Design: Qualitative, semi-structured, online interviews. Setting: Educators teaching in accredited nutrition and dietetics programs. Participants: Purposive sample of thirteen Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (92% female, 77% with > 6 years teaching experience) from each U.S. census region and accredited program type. Phenomenon of Interest: Educators described experiences teaching systems thinking in accredited programs, including benefits. Analysis: Transcribed interviews were analyzed using qualitative grounded theory iterative coding. Excel was used for data organization and thematic coding analysis. Results: Educators described four themes when teaching systems thinking: (1) a holistic approach to …

Student Exposure To Andhii Improves Confidence With Applying The Nutrition Care Process, Casey Colin, Tad Campbell, Michel Harris, Avalon Mustafa, Lindsay Woodcock

Journal of Dietetic Education

The objective of this study was to explore if using ANDHII improves NCP confidence and documentation quality. This quasi-experimental trial was conducted with n = 43 undergraduate dietetic students. NCP confidence was measured before and after a traditional case study, and after an ANDHII case study. Documentation quality was measured using a validated quality audit tool. Confidence increased from time 1 to time 2 (p = 0.008), and from time 2 to time 3 (p = 0.003). Documentation quality was higher for the ANDHII documentation compared to the non-ANDHII documentation (p < 0.001) but lower when compared to the traditional ADIME (p = 0.03). Familiarizing students with ANDHII improved NCP confidence. Opportunities exist to improve ANDHII functionality and positively impact documentation quality.

Perceptions Of Assessment Processes, Enhanced Competency Integration, And Practice Preparation Among Future Education Model Graduate Program Alumni, Katherine Wiley, Pamela Rothpletz-Puglia, Laura Byham-Gray, Jennifer Tomesko

Journal of Dietetic Education

Background: Competency-based assessment (CBE) focuses on applying knowledge and skills to progress from novice to expert in clinical areas. The Future Education Model Graduate Program (FEMGP) incorporates CBE to meet enhanced competencies for nutrition and dietetics. Objective: This study explored FEMGP graduates’ perceptions of assessment methods and practices and perceptions of enhanced competency (EC) integration and preparedness for entry-level practice. Methods: This was a basic descriptive qualitative study. Ninety-eight graduates from one FEMGP in the northeastern US were recruited via email to participate in one of 13 virtual focus groups from April-June of 2023. Directed content analysis was conducted with …

Registered Dietitian Nutritionists’ Knowledge, Confidence, And Experiences With Treating Trafficked Individuals: A Call For Interprofessional Continuing Education, Christen C. Cooper, Lydia Mcroberts

Journal of Dietetic Education

Background: Victims of human trafficking (HT) frequently face malnutrition, dehydration, low food security, and infections. When identified, victims of HT are normally treated with interprofessional team (IPT) care that often excludes Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs). Although RDNs are trained to treat these conditions, they may lack knowledge, confidence, and skills, for working with this population, as well as the opportunities to work on such IPTs. To date, no study has explored RDNs’ knowledge of or work with individuals who are trafficked. Objective: To explore RDNs’: HT knowledge, confidence in the ability to work with victims of HT, and barriers to …