Assessing diet in longitudinal birth cohort studies

Abstract

Diet is an important component of a person's environment. It is important for adults and particularly for mothers during pregnancy and while breast feeding, and for children in utero and during later growth and development. Measurement of the type and amount of foods consumed is complex. Here we describe the different methods that can be used, when and when not to use each one, and the importance of validation studies. © 2009 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.