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Nutritional educational intervention in users with psychiatric disorders living in supported housing: a pilot study
Obesity remains a pressing issue among populations with psychiatric disorders, raising questions about the effectiveness of nutritional interventions. A pilot analysis was conducted to explore the dietary habits and weight status of individuals residing in Supported Housing (SH) across six districts of Rome, with the aim of validating a nutritional education intervention.
The research employed a quantitative, quasi-experimental design, examining 92 participants across 57 housing units, stratified by age, sex, and diagnosis. This intervention spanned from October 2021 to January 2022 and consisted of two main phases: an educational session aimed at the staff on the food pyramid and national dietary guidelines, followed by a program designed to encourage healthier lifestyle choices among the users.
Findings revealed an average Body Mass Index (BMI) of 28 kg/m² (SD = ±5.74), indicating that most participants fell into the overweight category. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet, assessed via the Del Balzo and Savastano questionnaire, was notably low at 90.1%. However, the educational initiative had a significant positive effect; 90.3% of users increased their fruit and vegetable intake while reducing their consumption of fried foods and soft drinks. Among those who participated, 43.4% (13 out of 30) experienced weight loss, with an average decrease of 7.6 kg (SD = ±6.93).
These results underscore the potential for public health initiatives aimed at combating obesity within this vulnerable population. The strong interest expressed by staff in further nutritional education and specialist support highlights the need for ongoing efforts in this domain. [NPID: Psychiatric, intervention, Obesity, Mediterranean Diet, fruit and vegetable, education]
Year: 2026
