[Determination of optimal time frame for the body mass index surveys for the study of nutrition quality of a population]. / Opredelenie optimal'nykh srokov provedeniia oprosno-vesovogo metoda dlia izucheniia sbalansirovannosti pitaniia naseleniia.

ABSTRACT

The results of questionnaires and body-weight technique (applicable to nutrition assessment) (14 days in 40 families) of the Chuvash Republic were evaluated. The questionnaires' data were analyzed for 3, 7, 10 and 14-day periods and separately for weekends. A statistical analysis showed a lack of reliable quantitative differences both in respect to calculating all nutrients and in respect to the food value of daily rations during different time periods; however, reliable differences were detected between families' nutrition in weekends and working days. It was recommended to conduct such studies at least for as long as 7 days in order to ensure a complete hygienic evaluation of a balanced daily ration and to take account of all consumed foodstuffs.