From Self-Reports to Sensors - Novel Approaches to Understand and Improve Dietary Behaviors in Adults and Children

Summary

This dissertation investigates innovative sensor-based methodologies for evaluating dietary behavior, addressing limitations of traditional self-reporting and controlled-feeding studies. The research introduces the SnackBox, a novel device that objectively monitors snack consumption with enhanced accuracy and usability compared to conventional assessment tools. Validation studies with adult and pediatric populations demonstrate strong correlations with actual consumption patterns and significantly reduced reporting errors.
Using this approach, the research examines key determinants of eating behaviors, including stress and physical activity in adults, and food variety and autonomy in children. The findings underscore the value of sensor-based assessments in naturalistic settings, providing reliable data collection with minimal participant burden.