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Examining the Accuracy and Use of Portion Size Estimation Aids in Parents of Children With Obesity: A Randomized
Aislin R Mushquash1, Allison M Rasquinha2, Alinda Friedman3
1Department of Psychology, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
Insights
Parents using portion size estimation aids (PSEAs) showed poor accuracy, though 2D aids improved estimates for some foods. Dietitians can enhance portion estimation skills.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Dietary Assessment
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Accurate portion size estimation is crucial for managing pediatric weight.
- Portion Size Estimation Aids (PSEAs) are tools designed to assist individuals in estimating food quantities.
- Previous research has explored the effectiveness of various dietary assessment tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate parents' accuracy in using two-dimensional (2D) versus three-dimensional (3D) PSEAs for estimating portion sizes.
- To assess the practical use of PSEAs by parents in a home environment.
- To identify factors influencing the accuracy of portion size estimation.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 37 parents of children in a weight management clinic.
- Participants were assigned to use either 2D or 3D PSEAs.
- Estimation accuracy was measured by percent absolute accuracy across different food types.
Main Results:
- Significant main effects for group, food type, and group-by-food type interaction were observed (P < .05).
- Two-dimensional PSEAs resulted in more accurate portion size estimates for amorphous foods.
- Overall, parents demonstrated poor accuracy in estimating portion sizes, despite finding PSEAs useful and being satisfied with them.
Conclusions:
- Two-dimensional PSEAs enhance portion estimation accuracy for amorphous foods compared to 3D PSEAs.
- Parents' ability to accurately estimate portion sizes using PSEAs remains a challenge.
- The findings underscore the importance of healthcare professionals, such as dietitians and nutrition educators, in improving portion estimation skills.
Objective:
To determine parents' (1) accuracy in using portion size estimation aids (PSEAs) to estimate portion sizes and (2) use of PSEAs at home.
Methods:
Parents (n = 37) of children in a pediatric weight management clinic were recruited, enrolled in a parallel-design, randomized, controlled trial, and assigned to receive a 2-dimensional (2D) or 3D PSEA. Percent absolute estimation accuracy was examined across groups and food types. Survey responses were organized according to frequencies and percentages were calculated.
Results:
Main effects of group, food type, and group × food type interaction were significant (all P < .05). The 2D PSEAs yielded more accurate estimates of portion sizes for amorphous foods. Overall, parents' estimation accuracy was poor. Participants were satisfied and found the PSEAs to be useful.
Conclusions And Implications:
The 2D PSEAs led to greater accuracy in estimating portions of amorphous foods. Parents showed poor accuracy in estimating portion sizes. This study highlights the role of dietitians and nutrition educators in enhancing portion estimation accuracy.
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