A systematic review on empowerment for healthy nutrition in health promotion

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveThe present review aimed to identify and synthesize studies that used an empowerment approach within the field of healthy nutrition.DesignA systematic review was conducted. Studies were identified by database searching (PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science and Psyndex). Searching, selecting and reporting were done according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) Statement.SettingHealth promotion including the subject of healthy nutrition.SubjectsIndividuals from non-clinical populations.ResultsA total of 1226 studies were screened for eligibility, eight studies were finally included. Three studies used the empowerment approach within a qualitative research paradigm and five studies within (quasi-) experimental intervention studies. Heterogeneity in settings, samples and evaluation methods was high. Most studies referred to the key message of empowerment, i.e. taking control over one’s own life. However, the ways in which this key message was implemented in the interventions differed considerably.ConclusionsThe number of studies included was very low. Furthermore, most studies had some limitations in terms of reporting how the empowerment approach was actually applied. The empowerment approach still seems to be unfamiliar within the field of healthy nutrition.