Erickson Solution-Focused Health Coaching: an Innovative Approach for Sustainable Nutrition. (30th September 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tkacova, R
• Is Part Of: European journal of public health. Volume 30(2020)Supplement 5
• Publication Date: 2020-09-30
• Subjects: Epidemiology -- Europe -- Periodicals; Public health -- Europe -- Periodicals; 362.109405
• DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckaa165.1336
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1101-1262

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Overweight and obesity have become an epidemic and a significant public health challenge. Apart from genetics, every obesogenic factor is modifiable and therefore, it is personal behaviors that play a dominant role in obesity prevention and management. Also, in a current climate emergency, each individual's behavior including food preferences and nutrition needs to be viewed from the global perspective. Previously, we examined Erickson solution-focused health coaching as a behavioral intervention supporting the adherence to healthy nutrition and exercise. Currently, we incorporated the 'ecology' aspect to our model. By applying Erickson ecology health coaching worldwide, we aim to support sustainable nutrition resulting in obesity prevention and management. To that effect, we established the Erickson Coaching for Health World Game (ECOHEALTH WG) project. Methods: The ECOHEALTH WG involves research activities, health coach training, health education including ecological nutrition, and individual or group health coaching. Results: Our research investigation assessed the impact of Erickson health coaching on the adherence to sustainable nutrition, anthropometry and body composition in overweight and obese persons with sleep apnea. The mean weight loss was 5.2±1.0% and 77% of participants achieved a target reduction of > 3%, in association with the sustained shift to plant-based food preferences. Moreover, health coach training was conducted in Austria, China, Slovakia, and Turkey. In the coming months, we project conducting health coach training in multiple countries around the Globe. Conclusions: The ECOHEALTH WG project represents a unique opportunity to assist people to adhere to sustainable nutrition worldwide, with beneficial effects on the environment. A partnership between health coaches and healthcare providers has major potential to support healthy food choices and sustainable nutrition worldwide.