Biomarker-based validity of a food frequency questionnaire estimating intake in Brazilian children and adolescents

Abstract

This study evaluated the validity of nutrient and food group intakes estimated by an FFQ against biomarkers. A 71-item semiquantitative FFQ was administered to 210 Brazilian children and adolescents aged 9-13 years. Intakes were correlated with biomarkers in plasma and red blood cells. Correlations between nutrients and their biomarkers were presented for animal protein, myristic acid (C14:0), EPA, DHA, β-carotene, folate, and vitamins B3, B5 and B6. Food groups and biomarkers were correlated as follows: fish products with EPA and DHA; milk and dairy with C14:0, pyridoxal 5'-phosphate and vitamin B12; total vegetables and dark green and orange vegetables with β-carotene; 5-methyltetrahydrofolate with green vegetables; and flour products with para-aminobenzoylglutamic acid. This FFQ is a valid tool for ranking Brazilian children and adolescents according to their intake of several nutrients and food groups.