A 40-Day Journey to Better Health: Utilizing the DanielFast to Improve Health Outcomes in Urban Church-Based Settings

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.

A Church-Based Weight Loss Intervention in African American Adults using Text Messages (LEAN Study): Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

“…The use of SMS text messages in the LEAN study did not appear to result in greater weight loss compared with most other church-based studies targeting African American adults [ 38 ]. However, our satisfaction data showed that SMS text messages were well-received, similar to recent studies [ 25 , 26 , 37 ]. Of note, the majority of LEAN participants responded to SMS text messages even though they were not required to do so, and higher text message response was associated with higher percent body fat loss.…”

“…The unique component of the LEAN study was the use of SMS text messages in a randomized controlled trial targeting African American adults. Three recent studies of African American adults have utilized SMS text messages to assist in the initiation of behavioral change in a church-based setting [ 25 , 26 , 37 ]; the SMS text messaging system in these studies included personalization, support, and delivering recipes and meal plans. They also showed within-group changes in weight loss or physical activity outcomes across 12 weeks.…”

“…This realization has led to the development of SMS text message-based pilot and feasibility studies targeting various behaviors such as the medication adherence, HIV prevention, healthy eating, and physical activity [ 21 - 25 ]. Although these studies demonstrate the acceptability, feasibility, and potential effectiveness of SMS text message interventions designed for African American adults, few have utilized randomized controlled designs [ 22 ], and fewer were specifically designed to promote weight loss [ 26 ]. Therefore, the purpose of the Lifestyle Changes Through Exercise and Nutrition (LEAN) study was to test the feasibility (SMS text message tolerance and satisfaction) and effectiveness (compared with a control group) of utilizing SMS text messages to promote weight loss in African American adults enrolled in a church-based weight loss program.…”

Feasibility and acceptability of a mobile messaging program within a church-based healthy living intervention for African Americans and Latinos

“…15,16 Systematic reviews have found mobile messaging to be a promising approach for promoting healthy eating and physical activity. 17,18 The majority of studies that employed mobile messaging in church settings, including three studies with AA populations, [19][20][21] found that the approach was promising but required further research. One study reported that respondents did not want to participate in healthy living activities beyond the messages, 20 while the other suggested that messaging be used as part of a more comprehensive response to promoting healthy weight.…”

“…19 Another study successfully combined messaging with a structured diet and cooking classes implemented during the 40 days before Easter. 21 Thus, combining mobile messaging with other church-based activities may increase participants' exposure to healthy living content, but it is unclear how acceptable this approach would be to congregants. Another study described the successful integration of a mobile messaging component into a multi-level, church-based program; however, the study focused on prostate cancer prevention.…”