Question

Apply various nutritional assessments to food records

Answer 1

A nutritional assessment is nothing but the estimation and calculation of the dietary intake of a person and as a result pf that, its effects on their physiological condition. These food record methods evaluates the current nutritional intake from different food items preferred by people themselves.The most common methods used for evaluation are -

24 hour recall

In a 24 hour recall method, a skilled professional asks the patient to recall all food items and beverages that they consumed in the last 24 hours and then according to that the nutrient intake of the patient is determined using acomputerized diet analysis software. This method is considered quick and simple

Food frequency questionnaire

In this method, the patient is provided with a whole list of food items. The subject is then asked to point out their intake each day, each week and each month. There are three types of food frequency questionnaire - non-quantitative, semi-quantitative and quantitative. It is considered better than 24 hours recall for its more accurate results.

Food Diary

Food diary is a very simple yet time taking method where the food intake is noted down by the patient at the time of eating. It is also called food journal or food record.

Observed food consumption

This is a very precise method where the food item has to be weighed and calculated with full accuracy. It is the most effective method but less likely used as the method takes a lot of time and effort as well as is expensive.