In Latino families, dads often set the tone at the table. A new study shows that when fathers lead by example, the impact can last well beyond the dinner hour.
Researchers found that a culturally tailored, father-focused nutrition and physical activity program led to long-term improvements in healthy eating habits among Mexican-heritage families living in rural U.S. communities. The six-week program — called ¡Haz Espacio para Papi! (Make Room for Daddy!) — resulted in increased fruit and vegetable intake that lasted up to two and a half years after the program ended.
“This study provides important evidence that culturally grounded programs centered on fathers can drive lasting dietary behavior change,” said Dr. Annika Vahk, lead author and researcher at Eastern Washington University. “Fathers play a vital role in modeling and supporting healthy behaviors in Latino families.”
Delivered by promotoras (trained community health workers) in Texas border communities, the program included group sessions, home activities and hands-on nutrition education for 59 families with children ages 9 to 11.
Fathers were surveyed before, immediately after and long after the program — up to two and a half years later. Those with less formal education showed the biggest gains in vegetable intake, while older fathers were less likely to make lasting changes.
The program is one of the first to show that family-centered, culturally relevant interventions can lead to sustained improvements in diet, especially when they tap into the strength of familism, a cultural value that emphasizes family unity and support.
This research was supported by the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The findings were published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior and offer a promising model for similar father-focused programs in other communities.