Influence of dietary education on dietary behavior and nutritional knowledge among Kutia Kondh adolescent girls

Abstract

Background: Adolescence represents a crucial period of physical and cognitive development characterized by increased nutritional requirements. Among the Kutia Kondh adolescent girls of Kalahandi district, Odisha, inadequate dietary intake and limited nutritional awareness pose significant risks of malnutrition and related health challenges. The aim of the present study was to measure the impact of a culturally targeted dietary education intervention on improving dietary behavior and nutritional knowledge among Kutia Kondh adolescent girls.Methods: A descriptive-cum-experimental research design was adopted; involving 60 adolescent girls aged 16-18 years from four villages of the Lanjigarh block, selected through convenient sampling. Villages were assigned to experimental and control groups using a random-lottery method. Baseline and midline data were collected using a structured interview schedule and a food frequency questionnaire. The experimental group received monthly dietary education sessions for three months, focusing on balanced diets, hygienic food practices, and the utilization of locally available nutrient-rich foods. Data collection and intervention were conducted between June and September 2025. Nutrient intakes were computed and compared against the Estimated Average Requirements (EAR). Data were analyzed using Paired t-tests, Independent t-tests, Chi square tests and McNemar tests to assess the effectiveness of the intervention.Results: Interim findings revealed a significant improvement in the experimental group’s nutritional knowledge and dietary behavior scores compared to the control group (p<0.05 & 0.01). Participants exhibited enhanced understanding of balanced diet, functions of food and conservation of nutrients along with an increased intake of cereals and millets, pulses, and vegetables.Conclusion: The interim analysis suggests that culturally acute dietary education interventions, supported by reinforcement, can effectively enhance nutritional knowledge and promote healthy dietary behaviors among tribal adolescent girls. Continued follow-up will help assess the sustainability of these positive changes over a longer period.