Ames, Iowa — A study done in part through Iowa State University shows a program aimed at Hispanic families with Mexican roots is linked to an increase in healthy food consumption.
The culturally-sensitive program is called Abriendo Caminos, or “Opening Roads.” ISU professor and study co-author Kimberly Greder believes one reason the program worked is that researchers tailored it to suit the communities where participants live.
Greder says Hispanic children have disproportionately high rates of obesity nationally and hopes to expand the program further across Iowa.
Researchers looked at nearly 400 families in four states, including Iowa. Half the families were placed on the six-week program, and a control group received handouts about nutrition and physical activity in Spanish.
