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Perceptions and experiences of early-adopting registered dietitians in integrating nutrigenomics into practice

Lookup NU author(s): Professor Lynn FrewerORCiD

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This is the authors' accepted manuscript of an article that has been published in its final definitive form by Emerald Publishing Limited, 2018.

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Abstract

Purpose - This research explores the perceptions and experiences of early adopters ofthe technology.Design/Method/Approach - Registered Dietitians (RD´s) (N=14) were recruited fromthe UK, Canada, South-Africa, Australia, Mexico and Israel. Six qualitative interviewsand two focus groups were conducted online using a conference calling platform. Datawere recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed.Findings - Early adopters of Nutrigenomics (NGx) were experienced, self-efficaciousRD’s who actively sought knowledge of NGx through communication with one anotherand the broader scientific community. They considered NGx an extension of currentpractice and believed RD’s had the skills to deliver it. Perceived barriers to wideningthe application of NGx were linked to skepticism among the wider dietetics community.Proliferation of unregulated websites offering tests and diets was considered‘pseudoscience’ and detrimental to dietetics fully embracing NGx. Lack of a sustainablepublic health model for the delivery of NGx was also perceived to hinder progress.Results are discussed with reference to ‘diffusion of innovation theory’.Originality/Value - The views of RD’s who practice NGx have not been previouslystudied. These data highlight requirements for future dietetic training provision andmore inclusive service delivery models. Regulation of NGx services and formalrecognition by professional bodies is needed to address the research/practice translationgap. Further research is required to enquire as to the views of the wider dieteticsprofession.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Abrahams M, Frewer LJ, Bryant E, Stewart-Knox B

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: British Food Journal

Year: 2018

Volume: 120

Issue: 4

Pages: 763-776

Online publication date: 05/04/2018

Acceptance date: 18/10/2017

Date deposited: 25/05/2018

ISSN (print): 0007-070X

ISSN (electronic): 1758-4108

Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited

URL: https://doi.org/10.1108/BFJ-08-2017-0464

DOI: 10.1108/BFJ-08-2017-0464

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