Nutritional Assessment: Clinical Examination

The clinical evaluation of nutritional status is a fundamental component of health assessment at any age. Along with anthropometry, dietary assessment, and laboratory tests, physical examination is one of the key tools to evaluate nutritional status. The two key components of the clinical evaluation are the medical history and the physical examination. The nutrition-focused medical history centers on past and recent dietary practices, voluntary or involuntary weight changes, and history of gastrointestinal disturbances. Food preferences, allergies, and intolerances must also be identified. Additionally, the nutrition-centered physical exam will explore clinical signs of nutritional deficiency or excess.