The Effect of a Lecture-Based Educational Intervention to Improve the Nutrition Knowledge and Behavior of Plant-Based Seventh-Day Adventists Living in the United Kingdom

Abstract

Background and Aims

The Adventist lifestyle, which encourages the consumption of a vegetarian or vegan diet, has been associated with several health benefits; however, the nutrition knowledge of Adventists about essential nutrients in the context of plant-based diets has not yet been assessed, therefore, this study evaluated the efficacy of an expert-led lecture-based educational intervention on the nutrition knowledge and habits of plant-based Seventh-day Adventists.

Methods

The intervention, delivered in the form of an online lecture by a clinical nutrition expert, comprised a 30-min lecture emphasizing the role of essential nutrients for vegans and vegetarians, the role of dietary supplements in COVID-19 prevention. Nutritional knowledge was assessed by using a 25-item questionnaire before and after the lecture, with a follow-up survey administered 4 weeks after the lecture to examine changes in dietary behaviors and supplement use.

Results

Thirty-seven participants completed the study. The mean test scores significantly improved from 8.49 (SD 3.75) pre-lecture to 20.03 (SD 2.99) post-lecture (p < 0.001). Subsequent behavioral changes were reported, including increased supplement use and dietary modifications, underscoring the intervention's impact.

Conclusion

This study highlights the effectiveness of a targeted educational interventions in improving nutritional knowledge among plant-based Seventh-day Adventists. Health promotion activities conducted by the church should aim to inform church members of the need for well-planned plant-based diets and of the importance of appropriate supplementation.