Conventional Food: Its Impact on Wellness Promotion and Illness Prevention

M R S et al | DOI: 10.65188/nurexus.1011

Nurexus | Journal of MedVerse Research and Practice | Volume 3 | Issue – 01 | January 2025

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Journal of MedVerse Research & Practice

nurexus.com

Conventional Food: Its Impact on Wellness Promotion and Illness

Prevention

Dr.Suchitra MR

, Dr.Govindaraju P

Assistant Professor, Department of biosciences, SASTRA(SRC), Thanjavur

Professor, Vinayaka Missions College of Nursing, Affiliated to VMRF Salem AVMC campus,

Puducherry

Email ID:suchitamr@gmail.com,

Submission Date: 23.12.2024

Accepted Date: 18.01.2025

Published Date: 28.01.2025

DOI: 10.65188/nurexus.1011

article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 4.0), which permits

unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author(s) and source are credited.

Abstract

The prevalence of non-communicable diseases is rising in contemporary societies due to poor dietary habits and

sedentary lifestyles. This study examines the role of parental influence on children's dietary and activity choices

in maintaining health. Healthcare professionals must consider parental perspectives on nutrition and exercise

when addressing childhood health and obesity prevention. To explore these issues, a qualitative, ethnographically-

based study was conducted using in-depth semi-structured interviews with 50 parents (35 mothers and 15 fathers)

of children aged 6-8. The findings revealed that parents were concerned about their children's low food intake,

potential eating disorders, and what they perceived as excessive physical activity. Believing that their children

were not consuming enough for healthy growth, parents encouraged eating and controlled their children's diets.

Conversely, they did not promote and sometimes limited physical activity, assuming their children were already

sufficiently active. The parents' responses indicated a lack of awareness regarding the risks associated with

overeating and insufficient exercise. Parental perceptions shaped both the choices made for their children and

their parenting approaches. The study highlights a conflict between public health objectives to reduce caloric

intake and increase physical activity, and parental concerns about undereating and overactivity in their children.

Keywords: Traditional foods, healthy lifestyle, disease, inactivity, diets.

Introduction

Traditional foods, often prepared using local, seasonal, and unprocessed ingredients, are deeply rooted in

cultural heritage and nutritional wisdom. These foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and bioactive

compounds that contribute to a balanced diet and overall well-being [1-3]. Their natural preparation

methods help retain nutritional value while avoiding artificial additives, promoting better health

outcomes. Regular consumption of such foods has been linked to the prevention of chronic conditions

like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases [4].

The concept of food as medicine dates back to ancient civilizations, which recognized the role of diet in

disease prevention and health promotion. Nutrient-rich diets support immune function, regulate body

weight, and lower the risk of metabolic disorders [5]. Additionally, traditional food practices strengthen

cultural identity and foster social well-being, highlighting their broader significance beyond nutrition.

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This study explores parental perspectives on food choices and lifestyle decisions for their children,

assessing their impact on dietary habits, physical activity, and overall health. Understanding these

influences is essential for shaping healthier future generations.[6-8]

Research has underscored the importance of diet in disease prevention. emphasized the need for health

professionals to overcome challenges in promoting well-balanced diets. analyzed modern dietary trends,

while highlighting the therapeutic properties of fenugreek. Studies have stressed the importance of dietary

modifications in managing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Furthermore, noted that professional

guidance is essential in dietary planning for individuals with chronic kidney disease.[9-12]

Research has investigated the impact of fermented foods on intestinal health and disease prevention.

Studies have explored their potential advantages, while other research has emphasized the enduring health

benefits associated with Mediterranean-style diets. Lignans have been recognized as bioactive compounds

that may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and certain types of cancer.[13,14]

With the increasing incidence of diseases related to lifestyle choices, diet plays a critical role in

determining long-term health outcomes. This research seeks to deepen our understanding of how parents

influence their children's nutritional habits and lifestyle choices, with the ultimate aim of encouraging

healthier eating patterns from childhood onward.[15]

Materials and methods

This research employs interviews with parents to explore their perceptions of their children's nutrition

and physical activity habits. It is part of a broader investigation into student behavior at school,

incorporating viewpoints from both parents and children. The objective of this paper is to examine

dietary and exercise preferences in families with children between 6 and 8 years old, focusing on the

critical period of obesity rebound and the establishment of eating and activity patterns. Participants were

deliberately selected from a public school located in a neighborhood where parents had low

socioeconomic and educational backgrounds, placing their children at higher risk for weight-related

health issues. All 91 families associated with the school were invited to participate. Parents were

contacted either during parent-teacher meetings or through letters sent home with their children. Of the

50 parents from 35 families who agreed to take part in the study, 26 fathers were initially chosen, with

additional participants included to ensure diversity in factors linked to overweight and obesity.

Ethical approval for the present study was obtained from the Institutional Ethics Committee of

Vinayaka Missions College of Nursing, affiliated to Vinayaka Missions Research Foundation (VMRF),

Salem, AVMC Campus, Puducherry (Ref No: EC/VMCN/2023/648). A Participant Information Sheet

was provided to all participants, and written informed consent was obtained prior to their inclusion in

the study.

Statistical Analysis: The analysis process involved several steps: encoding interviews, identifying

thematic clusters, extracting general concepts and structures, and documenting personal observations and

insights. The research oscillated between these phases. To preserve the participants' intended meanings,

most data analysis was conducted. Upon identifying patterns and categories, the final categories and

relevant quotations were translated into English. The software Nvivo 2.0 facilitated data coding, retrieval,

and analysis. Each interview was examined at least four times. During the initial reading, first-level

coding was used to highlight terms that seemed to indicate key aspects of dietary and exercise choices. In

subsequent readings, these highlighted words were used to create descriptive codes, which were

M R S et al | DOI: 10.65188/nurexus.1011

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meaningful labels assigned to different sections of the interview transcripts and later guided the

identification of other categories and themes within the data. Along with coding, memos containing code

explanations or research reflections were recorded in Nvivo and utilized to develop concepts from raw

data.

Results

The research identified three primary themes through interviews: Healthy Lifestyle Perceptions of

Parents: Interviewees shared their opinions on what they considered a wholesome lifestyle for their

children, considering elements such as diet and physical activity. Family Priorities for Children's

Nutrition and Exercise: Households discussed their main concerns regarding their children's eating

habits and physical activities. Parental Influence on Nutritional and Activity Choices: This theme

explored how parents viewed their influence and responsibility in making decisions about their

children's food intake and physical pursuits.

Table 1: Interviews with participants were conducted

Participants

Both parents

Mother alone

Father alone

Total

Number of interviews

Number of parents

taking part

Most families consisted of two adults and their children, though some were headed by divorced or

separated women. The respondents were primarily stay-at-home mothers, with over half engaged in

part-time or full-time employment. Approximately half of the participants had completed secondary

education, while the rest had attended trade schools or colleges. Among the participating families, four

had overweight children, six had obese children, and the remaining 25 had children of healthy weight.

The study examined various family characteristics, eating and activity habits, and social factors to

identify contributors to overweight and obesity. Table 1 presents the interviews with participants.

Table 2: Examples of the subjects discussed in the interview

Topics used to examine parental perspectives

The children's consumption of certain foods, or their absence

Children's unstructured or structured, solo or group activities

How they raised their kids' food-related decisions

choosing extracurricular activities

Children's unstructured or structured, solo or group activities

Information and other requirements for keeping their kids at a healthy

weight

The research involved 35 in-depth, informal discussions with parents. Some couples (12) chose joint

interviews, while most preferred individual sessions. The conversational nature allowed parents to

freely share experiences and perspectives. Interviews were conducted at convenient locations, either at

parents' homes or the school. To initiate dialogue, researchers often began with questions like, "Could

you describe a typical day with your children?" Follow-up questions were used to delve deeper into

responses. A topic list was developed to ensure comprehensive coverage of relevant topics, facilitating

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the interview flow when answers were brief or lacked detail. Interviews averaged 40 to 50 minutes.

Participants provided verbal consent before their interviews were recorded using a digital device.

Recordings were transcribed verbatim for analysis. Examples of topics discussed are presented in Table

Table 3: Theme 1, Divisions and subdivisions for “healthy lifestyle”

Healthy lifestyle

Divisions

Subdivisions

Healthy diet

Variety, harmony, and fullness

Nutritional good and bad

Traditional foods have value

Being active

Engaging in routine activities

Playing outside and participating

in extracurricular activities

As additional readings revealed patterns in beliefs, attitudes, and decisions, descriptive labels tended to

consolidate into smaller groups with more general and abstract categories. Categories were adjusted to

accommodate contradictory, negative, and confirmed cases. Table 3 illustrates the categories and

subcategories for a "healthy lifestyle".

Table 4: Theme 2, Divisions and subdivisions of participants' preferences for children's

food and activity

Participants

preference

Divisions

Subdivisions

Eating patterns

Picky eating is a

frequent habit.

Under eating causes anxiety.

positive perception of being a

heavy eater

Activity patterns

Being calm, quiet, acting

properly, and maintaining

equilibrium.

It's normal for kids to be active

Parents believe a nutritious diet should be well-rounded, focusing on the nature, composition, and

proportion of each food item rather than overall quantity. They categorize foods as either beneficial or

detrimental. A wholesome diet includes vegetables, fruits, legumes, fish, dairy products, and olive oil. It's

crucial to limit the consumption of sweets, candies, commercially produced baked goods, and fast food,

as well as reduce salt, sugar, and fat intake. Parents strongly value and trust traditional foods, organically

grown produce from home gardens, or regional dishes they consumed while growing up (such as chorizo,

pork, legumes, vegetables, local fruits, and cow's milk). They associate industrially produced, quick, and

pre-made foods like hamburgers and pizza with fast food establishments, contemporary culture, and

obesity-related health problems. Table 4 illustrates parental perspectives on a healthy lifestyle.

Being active

For parents, an energetic child was primarily defined by their involvement in daily activities, ability to

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move and play without issues, and academic success. They associated engagement with outdoor play in

public areas like schoolyards, plazas, and streets, as well as participation in school gymnastics and other

extracurricular pursuits. Being active also included limiting excessive use of electronic devices.

Surprisingly, many parents didn't consider organized sports or structured fitness routines necessary for a

child to be deemed active. They also didn't view typical daily activities like walking to school or opting

for stairs over elevators as essential for being active.

Table 5: Theme 3 ‘Parental role’: divisions, subdivisions

Parental

role

Divisions

Subdivisions

Assuring intake

Understanding the needs of their kids

Ensuring a large and varied supply

Education (teaching principles, self-

discipline, and self- regulation)

Promoting the

psychological and

emotional health of kids

Assisting Others In Finding Activities

The Promotion Of Socialization

Parents observed that children can be selective and picky eaters, often rejecting certain foods.

Interestingly, they hypothesized an inverse relationship between parental classification of meals and

children's preferences, with kids often favoring items their parents considered less nutritious. Parents

were worried about the quantity and variety of food their children consumed, expressing satisfaction

when meals were finished and diverse foods were tried. Being a hearty eater was viewed positively, and

parents became worried if they felt their children weren't eating enough. Undereating was perceived as a

potential threat to children's growth, development, and health, with concerns about possible connections

to eating disorders. Parents of picky eaters often worried about their children's eating habits, while those

with well-fed, robust children felt proud. Some parents saw their children's large appetites as a

reflection of their successful parenting. Table 5 illustrates the parental role in their children's eating

habits.

Table 6: Healthcare promotion at base, mid, and end of the decade for various disciplines

Disciplines

Percentage (%)

Baseline

Mid-decade

End of Decade

Baccalaureate nursing

Nurse practitioner

Medicine-DO

Medicine-MD

Pharmacy

Physician Assistant

Most parents believed their children were active due to observing them moving and engaging in various

activities. However, when considering children's self-reports and school activities, it appeared that kids

were less energetic than their parents assumed. Parents noted varying degrees of physical activity, and

occasionally viewed having "very active" children positively. They associated excessive activity with

restlessness, indicating potential concern about hyperactivity. Parents valued calm and quiet behavior in

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children, or minimal movement and inactivity. This conduct was perceived as a desirable trait, as

parents linked it to good behavior and balance. Table 6 illustrate healthcare promotion across different

disciplines at the beginning, middle, and end of the decade.

Perceived roles of parents Ensuring ingesting

Caregivers encouraged their children to consume all their meals, feeling responsible for their nutritional

intake. They believed they were best equipped to determine the appropriate types and quantities of food

for their offspring, assuming that if left to their own devices, children would not make healthy dietary

choices. Those who valued food beyond its monetary worth also saw mealtime as an opportunity to

educate their children about avoiding waste. Their aim was to instill self-discipline and autonomous

eating habits in their children. In this context, self-regulation meant adapting to the portions provided by

parents without constant prompting to finish meals. However, children were not given the freedom to

decide their own portion sizes. This approach appears to prioritize compliance over genuine self-

control.

Table 7: Report rate for the health promotion and disease

Discipline

Rate (%)

Inadequate

Problematic

Sufficient

Excellent

Health care

23.4

38.2

33.7

5.4

Disease

prevention

28.7

33.9

31.4

8.4

Health

promotion

28.6

31.7

23.4

8.9

Caregivers believed their children were sufficiently active and didn't need additional exercise. Rather

than focusing on physical exertion, they prioritized guiding and supporting their kids in exploring

activities that enhanced socialization, safety, and overall well-being. The suggested alternatives didn't

emphasize exercise, as concerns about screen time were more associated with isolation and reduced

creativity than physical inactivity. At home, parents provided opportunities for imaginative and

collaborative play through toys, board games, artistic activities, reading, or academic tasks. Since

children were considered too young to venture out alone, adults made decisions about indoor or outdoor

activities, necessitating constant supervision in a specific area. Proposed activities for children had to fit

into parents' busy schedules, with coordinating various after-school commitments for siblings proving

even more challenging. Consequently, children's participation in activities was influenced by both their

siblings' obligations and their parents' timetables. Figure 3 and Table 7 are showing the Report 2022 in

health promotion and disease.

Discussion

The present study sought to examine negative and divergent cases to enhance variability within a

socioeconomically challenged population, an approach consistent with qualitative research principles

described by Patton et al. [12]. Theoretical saturation was achieved when no additional cases could be

included without altering the core constructs under investigation, supporting analytical generalizability

through maximum variation sampling. Such an approach strengthens the interpretive depth of

qualitative inquiry and has been widely applied in health and behavioral research contexts [11,12].

Although the study explored food and physical activity decisions within a specific local setting, the

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findings have broader relevance. Prior research by Budreviciute et al. emphasized that socioeconomic

disadvantage plays a critical role in shaping lifestyle behaviors that contribute to non-communicable

diseases, including childhood obesity [1]. Similarly, Chen et al. proposed conceptual models of food

choice that highlight the interaction between individual preferences, social environment, and economic

constraints, reinforcing the importance of contextual factors observed in our study [5].

The emphasis on parental beliefs and preferences aligns with evidence presented by Chowdhury et al.,

who demonstrated that culturally embedded food beliefs strongly influence dietary behaviors and health

decision-making in socioeconomically marginalized communities [6]. These findings underscore the

need for culturally sensitive health promotion strategies rather than universal dietary prescriptions, as

also advocated by Cena et al. in defining healthy dietary patterns across diverse populations [4].

Socioeconomic position has consistently been linked to children’s dietary quality and activity levels.

Studies by Patja et al. highlighted the importance of incorporating health promotion principles into

professional education to address structural determinants of health, including family affluence and

environmental barriers [11]. Furthermore, Scoditti et al. and Lăcătușu et al. emphasized that diet-related

behaviors are deeply influenced by social and economic contexts, which can either facilitate or hinder

healthy lifestyle adoption [10,15].

The findings of this study also resonate with broader nutritional research demonstrating the role of food

environment and accessibility. Investigations by Carrero et al. and Cupisti et al. illustrated how dietary

choices are shaped not only by knowledge but also by affordability and availability, particularly among

low-income populations [2,3]. Likewise, functional and traditional foods examined by Rojas-Rivas et

al., Rodríguez-García et al., and Ganesan et al. highlight the cultural dimensions of food acceptance and

the potential for culturally relevant nutrition interventions [9,13,14].

Additionally, dietary diversity and food processing practices influence health outcomes, as described by

Dimidi et al. and Devaraj et al., who reported that fermented and fiber-rich foods may promote

metabolic health when integrated into culturally acceptable dietary patterns [7,8]. These insights support

the study’s emphasis on aligning health promotion strategies with parental preferences and lived

realities rather than imposing externally defined norms.

Overall, the present findings corroborate existing literature indicating that socioeconomic factors are

strongly associated with children’s dietary and physical activity behaviors. Family affluence has been

shown to be inversely related to unhealthy lifestyle practices, reinforcing the importance of addressing

structural and environmental determinants alongside individual behavior change. By integrating

parental perspectives, cultural context, and socioeconomic realities, this study contributes to a more

nuanced understanding of childhood health promotion and obesity prevention, consistent with evidence

across diverse public health and nutrition research [1–15].

Conclusions

Parental approaches to children's nutrition and physical activity vary widely. Some parents harbor

unwarranted concerns about their children's eating habits and activity levels, often due to a lack of

understanding regarding the risks of overeating and sedentary behavior. This anxiety can lead to

excessive control over food intake and discouragement of exercise. These perceptions significantly

shape parenting strategies and decisions. Interestingly, parental worries about under- and over-

consumption, as well as activity levels, often conflict with public health initiatives aimed at reducing

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calorie intake and promoting physical activity. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the

challenges faced by families across different socioeconomic backgrounds, future studies should explore

diverse populations and gather insights from households with varying economic circumstances,

particularly comparing the experiences of lower-income families to those of more affluent households.

Conflict of Interest: Nil

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