A 40-day journey to better health: Utilizing the danielfast to improve health outcomes in urban church-based settings

Nicole A. Vaughn, Darryl Brown, Beatriz O. Reyes, Crystal Wyatt, Kimberly T. Arnold, Elizabeth Dalianis, Paula J. Kalksma, Caryn Roth, Jason Langheier, Maria Pajil-Battle, Meg Grant

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: As the costs associated with obesity increase, it is vital to evaluate the effectiveness of chronic disease prevention among underserved groups, particularly in urban settings. This research study evaluated Philadelphia area Keystone First members and church participants enrolled in a group health education program to determine the impact of the Daniel Fast on physical health and the adoption of healthy behaviors. Methods: Participants attended six-weekly health education sessions in two participating churches, and were provided with a digital healthy eating platform. Results: There was a statistically significant decrease from baseline to post assessment for weight, waist circumference and cholesterol. Participants reported a significant improvement in their overall well-being, social and physical functioning, vitality and mental health. Conclusion: Results of this study demonstrate that dietary recommendations and comprehensive group health education delivered in churches and reinforced on a digital platform can improve physical health, knowledge and psychosocial outcomes.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number25
JournalHealthcare (Switzerland)
Volume6
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2018

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Leadership and Management
  • Health Policy
  • Health Informatics
  • Health Information Management

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