Alexander, R. C., Harper-Cooks, T., Robles, J., Campos, A. P., Matthes, K. E., Palacios, J. E., & Goode, R. W. (2024). Examining the mHealth needs for nutrition monitoring in black women who binge eat. Current Developments in Nutrition, 8, 102420. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.102420
Link to the Full Article Here: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.102420
Abstract
Objectives: Approximately 30% of Black women experience untreated binge and emotional eating which may disparately increase the risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes. Despite the availability of evidence-based interventions to treat binge and emotional eating, Black women still face several barriers to accessing in-person treatment. With higher smartphone ownership and internet use for health information compared to the general population, utilizing digital health tools may improve treatment access. However, limited evidence exists on the specific digital health needs and preferences of Black women. This study aims to evaluate mHealth needs for nutrition monitoring in Black women who binge eat.
Methods: Black women who experienced at least 2 binge eating episodes a month and regularly used a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone were recruited for two weeks (n=24) to use a nutrition monitoring app (Nourishly). The app tracked meals, and emotions, offered specialized meal plans, and facilitated communication with clinical care teams. Post-app use, participants joined focus groups to describe their experience and perceived cultural relevancy of the app. Thematic analysis was used to identify and analyze data.
Results: Participants reported positive experiences with app features like ease of use, goal setting, rewards, and emotional health tracking. Recommendations included enhancing customization features (e.g., smartwatch connectivity, photo integration, background aesthetics) and community support. Suggestions also included providing grocery shopping recommendations for meal planning and adding culturally relevant health facts (e.g., blood pressure and self-care).
Conclusions: Overall feedback was positive, indicating mHealth app acceptance for nutrition monitoring. Enhancing access, customization, and cultural relevance could further enhance mHealth engagement and acceptance among Black women who binge eat.
Funding Sources: American Diabetes Association Grant # 11-21-ICTSHD-12.
