The Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study 2008: study design and methods.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nutrition
• Dietary Assessment Methods
• Childhood Obesity Research

Background:

• Understanding the dietary patterns of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers is crucial for public health.
• Previous studies like FITS 2002 established a foundation for assessing young children's nutrition.
• Emerging issues in childhood nutrition and obesity necessitate updated data collection methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the methodology and sample characteristics of the Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study (FITS) 2008.
• To present a robust dataset on the food and nutrient intakes of US children aged 0-47 months.
• To provide validated tools and findings for future pediatric nutrition research.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study utilizing telephone interviews with parents/caregivers.
• Inclusion of a household interview for demographics and a 24-hour dietary recall using the Nutrition Data System for Research (2008).
• A subsample underwent a second dietary recall to estimate usual intake; protocol enhancements were tested via a bridging study.

Main Results:

• A national random sample of 3,273 children (birth to 4 years) was targeted.
• Dietary intake data were collected for 701 children over two days.
• Response rates were 60% for the recruitment interview and 78% for the dietary interview.

Conclusions:

• FITS 2008 offers rigorously tested methods and survey instruments for nutrition researchers.
• The study's findings on food and nutrient intake inform practitioners and policymakers.
• This research supports evidence-based strategies for addressing dietary issues in young children.