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@article{205356,
        author = {P. Nithya Shree and G. Nandhini and G. Grace Jebakani Sweety and Jebakumari Sutha A},
        title = {REIMAGINING MIXED METHODS RESEARCH IN NUTRITION EDUCATION: BRIDGING QUANTITATIVE EVIDENCE AND QUALITATIVE INSIGHTS},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {13},
        number = {1},
        pages = {6697-6701},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=205356},
        abstract = {Introduction: Nutrition education plays a crucial role in promoting healthy eating habits, improving nutritional status, and preventing nutrition-related diseases. Traditional research has mainly relied on quantitative methods to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices; however, these methods may not fully capture the social and behavioral factors influencing dietary choices. Mixed methods research integrates quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide a broader understanding of nutrition education outcomes. Aim and Objectives: This review aims to examine the importance of mixed methods research in nutrition education and its role in combining quantitative evidence with qualitative insights. The objectives are to explore its applications, identify opportunities and challenges, and discuss implications for future research. Review of Literature: Existing studies suggest that mixed methods research offers a comprehensive understanding of nutrition-related behaviors and educational interventions. Quantitative methods measure outcomes such as knowledge improvement and dietary changes, while qualitative methods provide insights into participants’ experiences, perceptions, and contextual influences. The integration of both approaches has been shown to strengthen intervention design and evaluation. Methodology: A narrative review was conducted using peer-reviewed journal articles, research reports, and scholarly publications related to mixed methods research in nutrition education. Relevant literature was analyzed to identify key themes and methodological trends. Results and Discussion: Findings indicate that mixed methods research enhances data triangulation, improves validity, and provides deeper insights into nutrition education outcomes. Challenges include methodological complexity, resource demands, and difficulties in data integration. Conclusion: Mixed methods research is a valuable approach for advancing nutrition education by combining numerical data with contextual understanding. It supports the development of effective, evidence-based interventions and contributes to addressing complex public health nutrition challenges.},
        keywords = {Mixed Methods Research, Nutrition Education, Quantitative Research, Qualitative Research, Evidence-Based Practice, Public Health Nutrition.},
        month = {June},
        }