Capturing sodium reduction efforts in What We Eat in America, NHANES (384.6)

Abstract

The Institute of Medicine report, Strategies to Reduce Sodium Intake in the United States, recommended that Federal agencies should ensure and enhance monitoring and surveillance relative to sodium (Na) intake measurement and Na content of foods. This presentation highlights initiatives undertaken to assure that the Na reduction efforts are reflected in dietary intake data collected in What We Eat in America, NHANES. A comprehensive review of the USDA Automated Multiple‐Pass Method (AMPM) began in 2008. Questions to elicit specific details for 2/3 of the foods/beverages reported by respondents have been updated as necessary with attention to Na. The survey database of foods/beverages has expanded by 20 % (>1300 items) since 2009‐10 with increased specificity about foods that impact Na content. Identification of ~125 “sentinel foods”, select foods being monitored as primary indicators for assessing potential change in Na content, was completed in collaboration with other government agencies. Results from the AMPM Validation Study demonstrated the competence of AMPM to capture accurate estimates of dietary Na intake. Each of these initiatives enhances Na intake measurement in national surveillance.Grant Funding Source: Supported by the Food Surveys Research Group