A new technique for the continuous measurement of food intake in man

A new method for the direct measurement of solid food intake in man is described. The apparatus consists of a refrigerated food dispenser connected to an electronic recording system whereby a continuous record of food intake can be obtained over an extended period. In standardization procedures the method was found to be reliable; subsequent studies have shown it to be sensitive to the effects of anorectic drugs, and applicable to the long-term study of patients with eating disorders.