October Summary

To summarize September’s discussion, the group has come up with the following ideas:

The two groups did not differ significantly between their physical activity level and their macronutrient distributions. The most likely reason that that their BMI and weight loss both decreased is due to the fact that the individuals in the intervention group were given eating plans tailored to their specific caloric needs, which were most likely lower than what they commonly consumed. In addition to this, macronutrient choices may have been healthier than what the control group was consuming. They may have been eating more whole grains which have more fiber, whole fruits and vegetables, and mono- and poly-unsaturated fats compared to simple sugars and trans- and/or saturated fats. While these two diets are equal as macronutrient percentages, they are very different in terms of their effects on the body and overall health.

Reasons for the intervention group’s non-compliance are abundant. It may not be an individual’s lack of motivation, but rather the inability to apply certain changes. Food availability could be a difficulty, whether it’s an issue of money, storage space, etc. In addition, other family members could be picky eaters and/or have food allergies. Native Americans have been long recognized as being a people that are family oriented, and they may not want to impose new rules onto their families or tell them what they are doing is wrong. Along with this, if a vast amount of people in the community have diabetes and/or heart disease and their unhealthy lifestyles have become the norm, people may not see the need for change. It’s almost as though in these illnesses have become acceptable. Even more, although the participants were receiving education, they may not be at an intellectual level that allows them to really understand and know how to apply the information.

It seems that the higher rates of CVD and Type 2 DM are attributed to many different circumstances. For one, these Native people may not have access to the educational resources that many other Americans do. If they aren’t aware of the fact that the food they are putting into their bodies is detrimental to their health, than they aren’t going to take steps to move toward healthier lifestyles. In addition, genetics may play a very large part as well. Just as certain populations are more at risk for certain diseases, Native Americans may be more at risk for CVD and type 2 DM. Also, these persons may not be very active physically. It seems that most of their physical activity came from farming, hunting, and doing similar activities that go along with their nature-based culture. Our current society does not really allow for those activities anymore. Lastly, this is a group that may not seek modern medical help. Many Native Americans have long relied upon natural remedies. The reasons are numerous.

In conclusion, I think it is important that we as nutrition professionals take this information and use it to support the notion that an individual’s non-compliance with lifestyle change is not always the result of internal factors or self-motivation, but rather because of external factors often out of their control. It is important that we take the time with certain clients to pinpoint the real reasons why they are not implementing lifestyle changes.