What is the primary purpose of a food diary?

The primary purpose of a food diary is to track dietary intake for health assessments. By maintaining a record of the foods and drinks that a person consumes over a specific period, individuals and health professionals can assess nutritional habits, identify patterns, and determine areas for improvement in diet. This information is valuable for making dietary recommendations, setting health goals, and monitoring progress over time.

Using a food diary can be particularly beneficial in contexts such as weight management, managing chronic diseases, or ensuring that nutritional needs are met, which allows for personalized dietary interventions. Additionally, a food diary can help individuals become more mindful of their eating habits, potentially leading to healthier choices.