Evaluation of a Trauma‐Informed Nutrition Curriculum for Women With Children Living in Transitional Housing

• DOI: 10.1111/jhn.70015
• Publication Date: 2025-02-11T10:31:36Z
• Authors: Austin Milton; Natalie Frech; Anna Shadid; Nicholas Hollman; Sarah Beth Bell; Marianna S. Wethe...
• Keywords: Socioemotional selectivity theory; Nutrition Education; Attrition

ABSTRACT Objective This study describes the implementation of a 6‐week nutrition and culinary education curriculum at transitional housing facility for single mothers in Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States. Methods Using novel, trauma‐informed approach to education, we delivered Around Table: Nourishing Families across three, small group cohorts ( n = 15) over period 2 years. Lessons emphasized dialogue group‐directed learning on topics toxic stress, food as nourishment family resilience combined with hands‐on recipe preparation by group. We evaluated process measures participation attrition outcome self‐reported skills, dietary intake, emotional well‐being, other indicators self‐care using pre–post design. Results Food skills significantly improved post‐curriculum p 0.026) additional improvement several areas mindful eating, greater use healthy foods mealtimes. Conclusions Hands‐on, participatory cooking that emphasizes mind–body connections can be feasible strategy teaching introductory may also support socioemotional healing this population.