The National Institute of Drugs & Alcohol (NIDA) research shows that individuals who are abusing drugs lose nutrients during vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive problems that are caused by the drugs.  Also, their research shows that an addict’s body cannot absorb calcium when they are using meth. And the prevalence of a poor diet is 24% in these individuals.  Furthermore, their research shows that Nutrition Education is effective in substance abuse treatment and recovery; and should be included as a component of their treatment process (nida.nih.gov ).   

Recently the Senior Nutrition Education Program Assistant partnered with the Grayson County Specialty Court Program in Grayson County Kentucky to teach nutrition classes to the individuals who are in the drug court system.  There were eleven participants that took part in and graduated from the program with much success.

The clients were taught classes using the “Healthy Choices for Every Body” curriculum, from the University of Kentucky.  This curriculum focuses on subjects such as diet quality, food resource management, increasing their physical activity, and food safety; there were seven lessons in all.

One hundred percent of the participants improved in Diet Quality, there was a 100% improvement in the Food Resource Management section, a 91% improvement in the amount of physical activity they now practice, and a 100% improvement in their Food Safety skills and knowledge.  

As you can see from the percentages, the Nutrition Education Program made a great impact on these individuals.  They were very eager to learn and get back on track to a healthier lifestyle. As a result of these phenomenal improvements, the NEP Senior Assistant will partner with the Grayson County Specialty Court Program to teach future clients how to improve their overall health and wellness through proper eating habits and exercise.