(PO16-55-22) Effect of a Weekly Text Message Program on Infant Food Group Intake in WIC Participating Families

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Presenting Author(s)

Alison K. Macchi, PhD, RD
– Postdoctoral associate, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States

Co-Author(s)

SM

Stephanie Moreira
– University of Hawaii
Jinan Banna, PhD, RD
– Associate Professor, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States
Cristina Palacios, PhD, MS
– Associate Professor, Department of Dietetics and Nutrition Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Miami, Florida, United States

Disclosure(s):

Alison K. Macchi, PhD, RD: No relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Objectives: To test the effect of a weekly test message (SMS) program for improving feeding practices and infant weight on infant intake of specific food groups.

Methods: This study was a multi-site, randomized clinical trial, in 202 caregivers of healthy term infants participating in either the Puerto Rico or Hawaii WIC program. Participants were randomized to receive SMS about either infant’s general health issues (control) or SMS for improving feeding practices (intervention) for four months. Anthropometrics and demographics were assessed at baseline. A validated infant food frequency questionnaire was assessed at the four-month visit to assess intake of general food groups.

Results: A total of 164 participants completed the study (n= 84 control and n= 80 intervention). Baseline characteristics were similar between both groups. At 4-6 months of age, consumption of food groups was similar between both groups and overall, 0 oz (SD: .011) of protein, .49 oz (SD: 1.74) whole grains, .35 oz (SD: 1.14) refined grains, .83 oz (SD: 4.07) fruits, .55 oz (SD: 1.99) vegetables, .20 oz (SD: .883) juices, and 0 oz (SD: .005) of salty snacks were consumed.

Conclusions: There was no significant difference among food group intake with the intervention. Starting messaging during pregnancy and messages tailored to first foods may improve the outcomes of future studies. SMS interventions may be an appropriate way to continue care between WIC visits.

Funding Sources: This study was supported by the National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD), of the National Institutes of Health. Infrastructure support was also provided in part by the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities RCMI Grant. This research was also supported in part by the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).