Measuring carotenoid intake in infants and toddlers through skin analysis
Official title: Validation of biomarkers of infant and toddler carotenoid intake
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11082474 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new, gentle way to check how many fruits and veggies babies and toddlers are eating by measuring colorful pigments in their skin, and it aims to make sure this method works as well as regular blood tests to help promote healthy eating habits early on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $600,712 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD111555-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082474 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are infants and toddlers who are beginning to consume solid foods, particularly fruits and vegetables.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older children or adults may not benefit directly from this research focused on infants and toddlers.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to accurately measure the intake of fruits and vegetables in infants and toddlers by using a non-invasive technique that analyzes carotenoids in the skin. Carotenoids are important pigments found in many colorful fruits and vegetables, and they play a crucial role in health, including visual and cognitive functions. The study aims to validate this new method against traditional blood tests to ensure its reliability. By understanding dietary intake better, the research hopes to support healthier eating habits from a young age.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved dietary monitoring in young children, promoting better health outcomes through enhanced nutrition.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using non-invasive methods for dietary assessment, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moran, Nancy E — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Moran, Nancy E
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.