Addressing nutrition and social connection through community gardening: A South Australian study

Abstract

Background This research aimed to evaluate the benefits of the community gardening program called ‘‘Magic Harvest (MH)” with respect to its key elements: social interaction; gardening skills; and, healthier eating. The MH program supports community participants to grow food, share produce, prepare and preserve food. Methods Two focus groups were conducted with participants in MH programs in the south of Adelaide, South Australia. The MH programs were located in lower socio‐economic areas. Focus group interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded and analysed thematically. Results Thirteen participants took part in the focus groups and reported gains in community connectedness and shared learning, skills for growing food and healthy eating and making more sustainable food choices. Conclusion This study highlights the social and nutritional benefits that can be derived from a community gardening program in low‐income communities. Health practitioners and policymakers should consider community gardening as an effective health promotion strategy that can address physical and social determinants of health and nutrition for low‐income communities.

Prescribing physical activity and nutrition

“…Social engagement and positive dietary changes were also reported by Kaye Mehta and colleagues through community gardening with participants reporting the consumption of a wider variety of fruit and vegetables. A scoping review of community initiatives and interventions associated with vegetable intake identified the opportunity for community‐driven initiatives within local food systems to increase vegetable consumption and a potential to build healthy public policy.…”