Targeted Approaches for Vegetarian Nutrition Education

Abstract

The health benefits of the vegetarian diet are recognized globally. Much of this understanding has come from studies showing that Seventh-day Adventists practicing a vegetarian lifestyle can live longer and healthier. The church recommends, but does not require reforms in health, which include a vegetarian diet, however, some still do not practice it due to lack of adequate knowledge and prejudice because of the way the message is presented. Ideally, the vegetarian lifestyle should start at an early age, however, most children have an aversion to vegetables and fruits and a preference for high fat, high protein and high calorie foods. There is therefore a need to have a targeted approach that will motivate the increased intake of fruits and vegetables and present the principles of a vegetarian lifestyle to groups such as children and the Adventist church members. A study of the nutrition knowledge, attitudes and practices of Filipino Seventh-day Adventists has resulted in an approach that effectively addresses the specific dietary needs of its members. This approach accentuates the positive and eliminates the negative themes of the past. When targeting children, an approach that works well is the use of colors in foods, rather than nutrients. This approach helps uphold the unique health message of the church.