Computer-analyzed dietary intake printouts: guidelines for their design and student comprehension

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Health Education

Background:

• Nutrient analysis computer programs are widely used tools for dietary assessment.
• Understanding nutrient data is crucial for making informed dietary choices.
• Previous research has not fully explored how printout design impacts user comprehension.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate college students' ability to interpret nutrient analysis computer printouts.
• To assess understanding of Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) and supplementation concepts.
• To identify printout design elements that enhance information comprehension.

Main Methods:

• 553 college students were randomly assigned to 7 groups, each receiving a different printout format.
• Printouts varied in information type, amount, and presentation (e.g., graphics vs. spreadsheets, text messages).
• A 30-item objective test measured knowledge and interpretation skills.

Main Results:

• Most students held misconceptions about RDAs and vitamin/mineral supplementation.
• Printouts with added messages on nutrient sources/functions improved dietary conclusion-drawing.
• Graphic data formats were understood better than spreadsheet formats.
• Students generally read printouts accurately but struggled with interpretation.

Conclusions:

• Current nutrient analysis printouts often fail to convey essential information effectively.
• Design modifications, including graphic data and concise explanatory messages, can significantly improve user understanding.
• Recommendations are provided for nutritionists and software designers to create more user-friendly printouts.