1. A resource for staff who support individuals with intellectual and development disabilities
Carolyn Novak, M.S., R.D.
Thanks for coming today – who here is familiar with Wellness for Every Body?

2. Health disparities data
Percent who don’t eat 5 a day
Percent who don’t engage in leisure activity

3. Nutrition-related conditions!
Bottom line
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)
hypertension
heart disease
type 2 diabetes
Nutrition-related conditions!

4. What we found Staff nutrition knowledge varies “Junk food”
Food used as reward
Culturally diverse staff
Budget constraints – limited training opportunities
High annual staff turnover rates – greater than 50%
Use of unscientific dietary principles – fads

5. What we did Developed online nutrition training
Basic nutrition
Cooking
Menu planning
Shopping
Budgeting
Special diets
Physical activity
Goal – Change the environment and culture to improve nutrition!

6. Results Improved fruit and vegetable offerings and intake
Increased physical activity
Lower body mass index
Better lab values, mood, function

7. Horticultural therapy
Increase access to fresh fruits
and vegetables
Beds raised for easier access

8. Results: what we expected
Increased
Fruit and vegetable intake
Physical activity
Social interaction
Knowledge of farming

9. Results: what we didn’t expect
Vocational skills
Improved behaviors
Team building
Cookbook
Variety of new vegetables people tried and liked!

10. For more information
Web site: hennepin.us/wellnessforeverybody Carolyn Novak Telephone: