Final answer:
Directly measuring nut intake can be done through the use of a Food Diary, measuring cups and spoons for accurate portion sizes, and considering nutrient and energy density to make healthier food choices.
Step-by-step explanation:
There are several ways to directly measure nut intake. One method is using a Food Diary to record your diet, including the nuts you consume, for a period of time, such as two consecutive days. In this diary, you should include the name of the nut, the amount eaten, and the nutrient information, which can be obtained from the Food Nutrient Chart. After recording this data, you can calculate the total consumption and the associated calories and nutrients.
Another approach involves using standardized measuring cups and spoons, or glasses marked with correct liquid amounts, to accurately assess the portion size of the nuts consumed. This helps in quantifying the intake and determining the corresponding caloric and nutrient content.
Lastly, it's important to acknowledge factors such as nutrient and energy density, which can inform healthier food choices. By understanding these concepts, one can track nut consumption in relation to maintaining, losing, or gaining weight, as indicated by scales like those discussed in Figure 2.1 for different dietary goals.