How can social determinants of health impact MNT outcomes?

The impact of social determinants of health on Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) outcomes primarily relates to adherence to recommendations. Social determinants encompass a variety of factors, including socioeconomic status, education, neighborhood and physical environment, employment, social support networks, and access to healthcare. These factors can significantly influence a patient's ability and willingness to follow dietary recommendations.

For instance, if a patient lives in a food desert where affordable and nutritious food options are scarce, they may find it challenging to adhere to dietary prescriptions that require specific foods. Similarly, individuals with lower socioeconomic status may face financial constraints that limit their ability to purchase recommended foods. Additionally, education level can affect a person’s understanding of dietary information and the importance of following MNT guidelines. If patients are unable to fully engage with or understand the recommendations due to various social factors, adhering to those recommendations can become problematic, thereby affecting overall health outcomes.

In contrast, while factors like food preferences and taste do play a role in dietary choices, they are often shaped by broader social determinants. Therefore, adherence to MNT recommendations is a more comprehensive indicator of how these life circumstances and environments can impact health outcomes significantly.