Grocery Interventions for Childhood Obesity

(NOURISH Trial)

This trial aims to explore whether resolving food insecurity in young children with early-onset obesity can improve their body mass index (BMI) over a year. Participants will receive $50 a week, either as unrestricted cash or as a grocery benefit with guidance from a nutrition expert (referred to as "Grocery intervention - restricted"). The study seeks to determine which method more effectively improves BMI and other health factors, such as nutrition and stress. Families with infants aged 9-12 months who are eligible for Medicaid and WIC and have a high BMI might be a good fit. As an unphased trial, this study offers families the chance to contribute to important research that could lead to better health outcomes for children facing similar challenges.

The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.

Research shows that access to grocery stores doesn't greatly affect children's weight. This suggests that the grocery guidance program is likely safe, as it focuses on teaching families how to shop for healthy foods. One study found that helping people improve their diet through grocery support increased their intake of healthy foods, with no major side effects reported.

For the cash benefit program, research indicates that financial help can reduce food insecurity without major safety concerns. Although direct evidence on the safety of this specific program is limited, similar approaches in other studies haven't been linked to harmful effects.

Researchers are excited about these interventions for childhood obesity because they explore new ways to influence healthy eating habits directly at the grocery store, a setting where many families make food choices. Unlike traditional approaches that might focus on education or exercise alone, these interventions provide financial assistance tailored to grocery shopping. The "Grocery Benefit Group" links benefits to specific grocery items, encouraging healthier purchases, while the "Cash Benefit Group" offers flexibility with unrestricted cash, giving families the freedom to choose and learn through practical decision-making. By connecting financial support with real-world shopping experiences, these interventions aim to empower families to make healthier choices consistently.

This trial compares two approaches to grocery interventions for childhood obesity. The Grocery Benefit Group offers financial support through a grocery benefit, providing participants with $50 worth of groceries weekly. Research has shown that proximity to grocery stores slightly affects children's weight, as access to stores with healthy food can improve dietary habits and Body Mass Index (BMI).