Cambridge Journals Online

Nutritient Intakes: Models and Surveys

Linear programming and pediatric dietetics

Ciro Colavitaa1 and Renato D'orsia2 a1 Pediatric Division, S. Paolo Hospital, Naples 80122, Italy a2 Potytecnic, University of Naples, Naples 80122, Italy

Article author query colavita c   d'orsi r

Abstract

The composition of 500 foods has been stored in a computer in order to analyse a child's diet. The methodology of operations research is applied to a very simple problem: a diet with only two foods. The geometrical representation of the ‘feasible region’ and of the ‘objective function’ is illustrated. One of the analytical methods employable with many variables (foods) is considered. This method was used in trying to find diets allowing for the preferential use of selected foods while respecting recommended dietary allowances, the tastes of the child and other constraints. The theoretical difficulty of transferring this methodology to pediatric dietetics was examined. We solved a simple case utilizing this procedure.

(Received November 23 1989)

(Accepted April 14 1990)

Key Words: Linear programming and dietetics; Computer-aided dietetics