Nutritional questionnaires are controversial in research studies because it is known that subjects lie about their dietary intake. The reason for this has been explored, and conclusions from such investigations suggest that dishonesty results from either self-denial or the wish to please others (in this case the researchers). This is not helpful and much research has been conducted in order to find the more reliable methods of accurately recording nutritional intakes. However, such denial is not confined to research, but can often be witnessed in those assessing their own dietary intakes. As within the research setting, it is common for individuals to underestimate their intake of unhealthy foods, while at the same time to overestimate their intake of healthy foods. Such a biased self appraisal is of no help to the individual and can in fact be counter productive. Those wishing to improve their diet must therefore first be honest with themselves before they can make any necessary changes to their dietary intake. Keeping a food diary is a valuable tool to those wishing to make such changes as it allows an accurate assessment of the quality of the diet.
Those wishing to improve their diet must therefore first be honest with themselves before they can make any necessary changes to their dietary intake. Keeping an honest food diary is a valuable tool to those wishing to make such changes as it allows an accurate assessment of the quality of the diet. Food diaries also allow the individual to look back and better assess the reasons for changes in body weight from records of their own food consumption. Like training diaries, food diaries are a valuable tool in helping to understand your own dietary needs. Biochemical individuality means that we all require different foods and nutrients in unique proportions. Trying to assess your own requirements can be achieved through memory, but a food diary will facilitate the process considerably. This particularly relevant to those wishing to lose weight or those trying to assess their intakes of particular nutrients.
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Krall, E. A. and Dwyer, J. T. 1987. Validity of a food frequency questionnaire and a food diary in a short term recall situation. Journal of the American Dietetic Association. 87(10): 1374-1377
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