Impact of personalized nutrition messaging on adherence to plant-based diets among university students: A randomized controlled trial

Project Abstract

This randomized controlled trial examined whether personalized nutrition messaging delivered via a mobile app could improve adherence to plant-based diets among university students over a 12-week period. A total of 312 participants aged 18–25 with self-reported interest in plant-based eating but varied prior adherence were randomized to either a personalized messaging intervention (n=156) or a standard generic dietary guidance control (n=156). Baseline assessments included dietary intake via 24-hour recalls over three non-consecutive days, plant-based diet adherence scores, nutrition knowledge, motivation, self-efficacy, and anthropometrics. The intervention employed an algorithm that integrated individual dietary patterns, preferences, cultural factors, and psychosocial determinants to generate weekly tailored messages, goal setting, and feedback. Messages incorporated behavior change techniques such as action planning, coping planning, social support prompts, and reflective journaling, delivered through push notifications, in-app dashboards, and optional counselor check-ins. The control group received conventional nutrition education materials without personalization. Primary outcome was change in plant-based diet adherence score, derived from a validated screener and corroborated by 3-day recalls. Secondary outcomes included changes in daily servings of plant-based foods (fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts/seeds), total caloric intake, macronutrient distribution, fiber intake, and biomarkers where feasible (serum cholesterol, fasting glucose). Process outcomes captured engagement metrics (message read rate, app usage, goal attainment) and participant satisfaction. Data were collected at baseline, mid-intervention (6 weeks), end of intervention (12 weeks), and a follow-up at 24 weeks to assess maintenance. Results indicated a statistically significant greater improvement in adherence scores in the personalized messaging group compared with the control at 12 weeks (mean difference 0.62 points on the adherence scale; 95% CI 0.40–0.84; p<0.001). This effect persisted at 24 weeks with a maintained but attenuated difference (0.38 points; 95% CI 0.12–0.64; p=0.004). The intervention group demonstrated higher daily intake of core plant-based food groups, with mean increases of 1.6 servings of vegetables, 1.3 servings of fruits, and 0.9 servings of legumes per day (all p<0.05). Total daily energy intake remained stable in both groups, with a modest relative increase in dietary fiber (+4.2 g/day) in the intervention arm (p=0.02). No clinically meaningful differences emerged in lipid profiles or fasting glucose, possibly due to the short duration and baseline ranges. Engagement analyses revealed that higher interaction with personalized messages, especially those tied to goal setting and problem-solving prompts, predicted larger gains in adherence (r=0.42, p<0.001). Participants reported greater perceived relevance, satisfaction, and confidence to sustain plant-based choices in the intervention arm. The study underscores the potential of personalized nutrition messaging, grounded in behavioral theory and delivered via digital platforms, to enhance adherence to plant-based diets among young adults. The findings support integrating tailored digital interventions into university wellness programs to promote sustainable dietary patterns and improve long-term health outcomes.

Project Overview

What This Project Is About

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This project explores whether tailored nutrition messages can help university students stick to plant-based diets. It compares personalized messaging to standard information to see what actually changes eating habits and why.

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The Problem It Addresses

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Many students start plant-based diets but struggle to maintain them. Generic nutrition advice may not fit individual tastes, routines, or beliefs. The project aims to identify if customization improves adherence and short-term health behaviors.

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Objectives of the Project

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1. Assess how personalized messages influence daily food choices among students.
2. Compare adherence rates between personalized messaging and standard nutrition information.
3. Identify which components of personalization (e.g., goals, reminders, recipes) are most effective.
4. Observe any immediate changes in knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy related to plant-based eating.

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What You Will Do Step by Step

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1) Recruit university students who are interested in plant-based eating.

2) Divide participants randomly into a personalized messaging group and a control group receiving generic info.

3) Deliver tailored messages over a fixed period and collect weekly food intake data.

4) Use simple analysis to compare adherence between groups and track changes in attitudes.

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Expected Outcome

We expect higher adherence to plant-based diets in the personalized messaging group, with improved confidence and better daily meal choices. Findings could guide future student nutrition programs and digital health communications.