Keywords

African American, faith-based, faith community nursing, family meals, healthy eating, obesity

 

Authors

  1. Fruh, Sharon M.
  2. Mulekar, Madhuri S.
  3. Crook, Errol
  4. Hall, Heather R.
  5. Adams, James
  6. Lemley, Trey

Abstract

ABSTRACT: African Americans have increased rates of overweight and obesity and are least likely to participate in family meals compared with other racial groups. A Family Meal Challenge (FMC) was developed with the objective of empowering individuals to eat healthy meals together as a family. The FMC was presented through four classes in three churches, two faith-based ministries, and two community service programs in health disparity zip codes. Surveys (N = 257) indicated a positive response. Engaging participants and teaching the benefits of eating healthy family meals in a faith-based environment are feasible and may increase the frequency of family meals. Information is provided to create and implement an FMC in any faith setting.