Assessment of infant feeding: the validity of measuring milk intake

Nutr Rev. 2002 Aug;60(8):235-51. doi: 10.1301/002966402320289368.

Abstract

Accurate assessment of infant feeding is needed for clinical practice and research. We identified 32 studies that evaluated the validity of direct observation, test weighing, or doubly labeled water methods. Correlations with validation standards were highest for doubly labeled water and test weighing, and lowest for observation. Cost and availability of isotope may limit the doubly labeled water method to research studies, whereas observation may be useful for clinical practice. Test weighing could be applied to either setting, but it may be practical to sample less frequently over 24 hours. Validity results and intended use of the measurement should be considered when selecting a method.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Body Weight
  • Eating
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena*
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Isotope Labeling
  • MEDLINE
  • Male
  • Milk, Human*
  • Nutrition Assessment*
  • Water

Substances

  • Water