The Effectiveness of Nutritional Education Interventions on Dietary Intake in Young Black Males: A Near-Empty Systematic Review

Abstract

The incidence of several diet and lifestyle-related diseases, previously seen only in adults, is increasing in prevalence in young people. The Black population, and particularly Black males, are at high risk of developing lifestyle-related diseases. Adolescence and young adulthood are considered a transitional period with increasing independence and responsibility, along with the development of lifelong lifestyle habits. This systematic review aimed to establish which methods and approaches to nutritional education interventions are the most effective in improving the nutritional/dietary intake in healthy young Black males. Eligibility criteria were designed using PICOS and included controlled trials of nutrition education interventions designed to improve dietary intake in healthy young Black or mixed-race males aged 14–21 years old. Medline, Cinahl and Scopus were searched in April 2021, resulting in 20,375 records being screened, and subsequently 72 full-text articles were reviewed. Risk of bias was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. One study met the eligibility criteria. Results are presented in a narrative format as meta-analysis was not possible. This systematic review revealed a lack of evidence on the effectiveness of nutritional education interventions in this high-risk population. Limitations are noted and recommendations have been made.