Canadian Journal of Dietetic Practice and Research最新文献

LGBTQ+ inclusion in dietetics education is essential to fostering culturally safe and structurally responsive learning environments. Drawing on auto-theory informed by poststructuralism, I reflect on a piece of student feedback that described the LGBTQ+ content in my course as excessive and suggested that such excess denied discussion about other historically excluded groups. This feedback illustrates how cis-heteronormative assumptions shape expectations about what counts as appropriate, balanced, or necessary content in professional education. Using the queer expression "No T, no shade, no pink lemonade," I explore how power, discourse, and affect emerge in moments of discomfort and curricular critique. I consider how such moments offer opportunities for reflexivity and deeper attention to the norms that shape belonging, visibility, and legitimacy in professional training. This paper contributes to ongoing efforts to embed cultural safety into dietetics curricula in ways that are reflexive, relational, and justice-oriented.

The Good Food for Learning Population Health Intervention Research Project piloted a universal school lunch program in select Saskatoon elementary schools. Digital photography-assisted weighing (DPAW) was used to conduct plate waste audits to determine student food consumption. DPAW is a novel method, thought to be too labour-intensive to be used in schools. The purpose of the study was to determine the practicalities of using DPAW plate waste audits in elementary schools from research assistants' (RAs') viewpoint. Semi-structured, 30-45-minute virtual interviews were conducted with former RAs and research supervisors involved in data collection during the 2021 and 2023 phases of the Good Food for Learning Project. Ultimately, 11 of 16 prospective participants were interviewed. A hybrid approach of deductive and inductive data coding was used for thematic analysis. We found that although most of the RAs wanted to improve in-person training and coordination with school staff, most reported that they would recommend this method to other researchers carrying out studies under similar settings. This study shows that RAs support the feasibility of DPAW plate waste audits in elementary schools, though some challenges need to be addressed to improve implementation.

Dietitians' lack of knowledge about eating disorders (EDs) can hinder access to nutritional care and present iatrogenic risks for people with EDs. This systematic review described existing trainings and deficiencies in the dietitians' education about EDs. It was carried out following the PRISMA guidelines. A total of 10 databases were systematically searched for quantitative and qualitative literature and 11 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included. The included studies outlined that the current formal education opportunities for dietitians about EDs are insufficient. Education about EDs was associated with better clinical skills and self-efficacy in the field of EDs. A lack of knowledge about EDs was identified as a cause of unwillingness to work with people with EDs. Specific knowledge relative to EDs underlined as deficient included gastro-intestinal disturbances, mental comorbidities and the treatments available. The development of formal education for dietitians about EDs addressing their gastro-intestinal and mental aspects is advised. If effective, it could improve the dietitians' educational opportunities about EDs and increase their willingness to care for this clientele.

Purpose: Plant-based diets have become increasingly popular and, in adults, have been inversely associated with body fat outcomes. We examined associations between overall, healthful, and less-healthful plant-based dietary index (PDI) scores and BMI z-score, waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, % fat mass (%FM), and fat mass index in young children, aged 1.5-6 years. Methods: Baseline data from the Guelph Family Health Study (287 children and 211 families) were used in this cross-sectional study. PDI scores were calculated from a single dietary recall using the Automated Self-Administered 24-hour Dietary Assessment Tool - Canada. Body composition outcomes were measured by trained research staff, with FM assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Associations between PDI scores and body composition outcomes were estimated using generalized estimating equations applied to linear regression models. Covariates included energy intake, physical activity, age, sex, ethnicity, household income, and gestational age. Results: After adjusting for covariates, there were no significant associations between overall, healthful, and less-healthful PDI scores and body composition outcomes. Conclusions: Proportions of plant- and animal-based food consumption were not cross-sectionally related to body composition in this sample of young children. Further research on longitudinal associations between PDI scores and health outcomes in young children is warranted.

Purpose: This mixed-methods study investigated disordered eating attitudes and behaviours (DEAB) and the risk of eating disorders (ED) in adult athletes engaged in weight-sensitive sports, while also exploring their dietary concerns and body image perception. Methods: Fifty athletes (mean age 25.9 years) recruited across New Brunswick completed two validated self-administered questionnaires (the Eating Disorders Screen for Athletes (EDSA) and the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q)) focusing on dietary concerns and body image perception. Ten individuals also participated in an individual interview. Results: DEAB and concerns about body image were widespread among participants. The mean EDSA score approached the high-risk threshold for ED, while the EDE-Q score remained below the diagnostic cutoff value. Both scores were significantly higher in females than males. EDE-Q scores in aesthetic sports were twofold greater than in gravitational sports. Two main themes convey the athletes' perspectives: perception of an ideal body image in sports and perceived strong association between athletic performance level and weight or body shape, with sub-themes depicting the influence of various stakeholders and the sports environment, the experience of DEAB, and the athlete's journey. Conclusions: Identifying ED among athletes participating in weight-sensitive sports requires a broad approach not limited to ED diagnostic criteria and should encompass those displaying DEAB, thus emphasizing prevention. Sociocultural factors such as the sport culture should also be addressed.

Purpose: There have been many changes to both academic and practical aspects of dietetic education in Canada since 1993. This study sought to document and explore major changes. Methods: Key informants (n = 22) identified through purposeful sampling completed semi-structured interviews, using a draft timeline based on a literature review. Recordings were transcribed, coded, and analyzed thematically using a social ecologic framework. Results: Five main themes emerged: (i) challenges with the traditional dietetic education model; (ii) emergence of champions for change; (iii) barriers and facilitators for change; (iv) shift towards integration; and (v) increasing access for diverse populations. The interviews supported that changes had been driven by a need to increase access to dietitians and to improve the capacity and sustainability of dietetic education. Conclusions: The past thirty years have been marked by changes in the organization and delivery of dietetic education in Canada, mainly through collaborations of university programs with health system and community partners. Overall, dietetic education programs have increased their capacity and sustainability. By doing so, they have improved access and better positioned the profession to meet the needs of diverse populations. These findings provide context for dietitians, educators, and students to prepare for future development of the profession.

Purpose: To assess the dietary contributions of foods consumed in childcare (childcare centre, preschool, or out-of-home childcare) and compare nutrient and food intakes between locations (in childcare vs away from childcare). Method: Dietary intakes of 46 children (1.5-4 years) were assessed with parent-reported 24-hour recalls occurring on a childcare day. The contribution of each nutrient and food group consumed in childcare to its total daily intake was calculated as a proportion and presented as a percentage. Mean nutrient and food group intake densities (per 1000 kcal) were compared between childcare and away-from-childcare locations using linear regression. Results: Foods consumed at childcare contributed to 46% of children's daily energy intake. Relative to energy, foods consumed in childcare provided proportionally high intakes of vitamin A (56%), fruit (56%), vegetables (54%), whole grains (53%), and legumes (71%) but proportionally low intakes of added sugars (30%), thiamin (38%), vitamin D (40%), iron (40%), and meat and alternatives (38%). Significant differences in nutrient densities were found for vitamin A (higher in childcare) as well as added sugars, thiamin, vitamin B₆, and iron (all lower in childcare). Conclusions: These data can provide evidence to inform the development of tailored interventions to improve young children's diets across multiple settings.

Purpose: To investigate the knowledge, attitudes, practices, and perceptions of Canadian dietitians regarding supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) in their practice. Methods: A 25-question cross-sectional online survey was developed by the research team, reviewed by experts, mounted on Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap), and advertised to dietitians across Canada. Recruitment took place via email, social media, and e-newsletters. The survey was open in January-February 2024. Closed-ended responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and open-ended responses were analyzed using conventional content analysis. Results: In total, 136 respondents met inclusion criteria; 80% reported they have supported patients/clients with IDD in their role as a dietitian, and 96% agreed dietitians can positively influence the health outcomes of people with IDD. Over 50% of respondents did not feel they had access to appropriate client/caregiver resources, nearly 75% of respondents denied receiving dietetic training in the nutrition care of patients/clients with IDD. Most respondents (∼70%) were interested in learning more about supporting people with IDD as dietitians. Conclusions: Many respondents reported a gap in education, skills, and resources in this area. These findings can be used to improve dietetic training and inform future strategies to help reduce the shortcomings in health care experienced by people with IDD.

Purpose: An exploratory longitudinal cohort study to assess scientific literacy (SL) skill development (both practical and self-perceived capabilities) in the Master of Applied Nutrition program. Methods: Students (n = 22) completed an optional online survey at the start and end of the combined coursework and practicum training portion of the program. Practical SL skills were assessed using the validated Test of Scientific Literacy Skills. Results: Both practical and perceived SL capabilities increased during the program with the largest increases in the ability to draw conclusions based on quantitative data and to read and interpret graphical data. Critical assessment of scientific literature validity was an identified training gap. Conclusion: SL skills are necessary for evidence-based dietetic practice and are critical skills that are acquired in the program; however, targeted approaches to minimize training gaps are required.