Catalyzing Family-Based Weight Wellness Through Food Is Medicine

This project combines three evidence-based strategies:

• Family-centered group medical visits co-taught by Tufts Medicine physicians, Drs. Erin Mauney, MD, and Ryan M. Kane, MD, MPH, and a registered dietitian that provide clinical care, peer support, and lifestyle counseling.

• Medically tailored groceries that help families access foods aligned with their health needs.

• Culinary medicine education taught by our partners at Kids Test Kitchen that builds practical cooking skills and confidence in preparing healthy meals.
   

The program brings parents and adolescents together in a supportive environment where they can learn, set goals, and make sustainable changes as a family. By integrating healthcare, nutrition support, and hands-on education, we aim to address both the behavioral and structural barriers that contribute to obesity and diet-sensitive chronic disease.

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This research, funded by the Ardmore Institute of Health, evaluates the feasibility, acceptability, and health impacts of this model using clinical outcomes, dietary assessments, and participant experiences. We are particularly interested in understanding how direct food support and culinary education work together to improve health and nutrition security.

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This work also serves as a training opportunity for future healthcare professionals, helping build a workforce skilled in lifestyle medicine and Food Is Medicine approaches.

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The long-term goal is to generate evidence for scalable, sustainable care models that can improve health outcomes and reduce disparities in communities across the United States.

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If you are interested in determining if you are eligible for this study, please email SPARKwellness@tuftsmedicine.org