Building a Roadmap for Nutrition Education in Medical Training: Lessons from a Student-Led Pilot
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Background
Poor diet is the leading cause of global disability and premature death, contributing to 11 million deaths annually. Despite this, nutrition remains underemphasized in medical education, with over 70% of United States (U.S.) medical schools failing to meet the National Research Council’s 1985 recommendation of 25 hours of nutrition training. In 2022, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bipartisan resolution calling for meaningful nutrition education for health professionals. Amid this gap, unreliable media sources frequently shape patient nutrition knowledge rather than professional sources such as registered dietitians or licensed physicians. Strengthening interprofessional collaboration with nutrition professionals could enhance dietary counseling and patient care.
Methods
In response, one student implemented a pilot three-part clinical nutrition lecture series at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine (UMMSM). Resulting student enthusiasm catalyzed the formation of a 50-member taskforce formed to expand and integrate nutrition longitudinally. A pre- and post-lecture survey around the first of three planned sessions (Npre = 98, Npost = 77) assessed knowledge, perceptions of nutrition training, and comfort with dietary counseling.
Results
Knowledge of evidence-based nutrition improved significantly (p < .001). Post-lecture, students reported greater confidence applying nutrition in clinical practice and increased interest in lifestyle medicine training (p < .001).
Conclusions
The first session enhanced students’ practical skills and understanding of nutrition’s role in health. This trajectory illustrates how even a small pilot can stimulate sustainable reform. We discuss key elements of an effective, multifaceted nutrition curriculum and propose a roadmap adaptable to other institutions.
