Eating Better Together: A Pilot Study for Childhood Overweight and Obesity Including a Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Intervention

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a 6-month pilot program called Eating Better Together, aimed at helping families with children aged 4 to 10 years who have overweight or obesity. This program addresses health disparities by focusing on healthy eating and activity habits in underserved families, particularly those with low income. The study builds on a previously tested family-based intervention called Prevention Plus, which targets fruit and vegetable intake, sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, physical activity, and screen time, using behavior change techniques. Families participating in the study will receive the Prevention Plus behavioral intervention delivered by a Behavioral Health Consultant through three in-person sessions at months 1, 3, and 5, and three phone calls at months 2, 4, and 6. During these contacts, children's height and weight are measured, and families receive feedback on growth and weight status. In addition to this, families will be given a fruit and vegetable prescription that provides home delivery of fresh fruits and vegetables up to $60 per month to support dietary goals. The intervention alternates between in-person and phone sessions to reduce family time costs and may be conducted in person or via telehealth based on policies. Participants will be involved in regular assessments including height, weight, and BMI measurements, and will monitor dietary and physical activity behaviors using diaries provided. The study will track participation rates, delivery of fruit and vegetable prescriptions, dietary changes, food security, and anthropometrics over the six-month period. Families will receive materials to support behavior changes and will be contacted regularly to encourage progress. The total participation duration is approximately six months, with ongoing support and feedback throughout.

EBT Fruit and Vegetable Prescription