Nutrition Education and Practices Among Practicing Chiropractors

Abstract

Few studies have examined chiropractors' educational background and use of nutrition in their practices. Published studies have used surveys with low response rates, and the last study was published seven years ago. The purpose of this study was to determine nutrition assessment and management practices used by chiropractors in the Midwest, and their nutritional education. A survey was mailed to 1400 chiropractors in four Midwest states and inquired about demographics, education, nutritional assessment methods and practices, and supplement use. The response rate was 27.5%. Most respondents were between 31 and 60, had practiced anywhere from five to 30 years, and were from communities with populations of 1,000 to 50,000. Respondents primarily relied on self-study and postgraduate chiropractic seminars for nutritional education. The majority of respondents used nutritional counseling in their practices, primarily for general health maintenance or inflammatory conditions, and recommended supplements to their patients.