A Coaching Intervention to Promote Nutrition and Bone Health in Deployed Soldiers
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine if telehealth coaching is superior to one-time nutrition and fitness education regarding dietary and exercise contributions to bone health assessed before and after a 9-month deployment. Design/Methods: Prospective, longitudinal, cluster-randomized, controlled trial. Outcomes included anthropometrics, bone density, bone turnover, dietary intake, and frequency/ intensity of work, sport, and leisure activities. All soldiers received one-time nutrition and fitness education prior to deployment; Telehealth Group received health-related messages via internet mail platforms while deployed. Sample: 234 male and female Soldiers, aged 18-30, were recruited/enrolled from deploying combat arms units; Telehealth Group (TG) n=85, Control Group (CG) n=149. Analysis: A linear mixed model approach was used to analyze the data longitudinally in SAS v9.2, as well as the MICE package in R v3.0.1. Findings: Internet transmission of materials and soldier access to them limited intervention dose. There were no significant differences between groups upon return, except an increase in body fat (BF) (p=.003) and sport activities (p=.015) for the TG. Higher BF is an unexpected finding since there were no differences in calories consumed, weight, or work and leisure activities between groups. Consumption of vitamin D increased in both groups. Implications for Nursing: Choices regarding lifestyle are important for all young adults but the obstacles to a balanced diet and exercise regimen in the deployed environment may have longstanding consequences for the soldier, and a fit-and-ready force. Early and aggressive educational efforts can help prevent chronic musculoskeletal conditions but require innovative approaches.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 13, 2015
- Accession Number
- ADA616302
Entities
People
- Mary S. McCarthy
Organizations
- Geneva Foundation