Feasibility of a Photo-based Food Diary Approach Among African Pregnant Women in the U.S.

Abstract

ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of using a photo-based food diary approach among African pregnant women living in the U.S. MethodsPhoto-based technique. Participants took photos of every meal they ate for seven consecutive days using digital cameras provided during the study. ResultsA total of 211 photos were collected from eight participants. The response rate was 91% (211/231). Photos had 60 identifiable food items from the five major food groups. The overall distribution was: Fruit (25%), vegetables (13%), dairy (5%), protein (25%), grain, and other starchy foods (31%). ConclusionsParticipants responded positively to the photo-based diary approach; however, most of them indicated that they would have preferred using their mobile phones. A photo-based diary approach may be a useful strategy for immigrant women to communicate their food intake and preferences with healthcare providers, especially when discussing food that may be unfamiliar to healthcare providers. While individual food intake assessments were not conducted as part of this study, the overall frequency showed a potential low intake of dairy and vegetables for many participants. Future studies should focus on in-depth food intake assessments in order to make specific recommendations. Funding SourcesNone.