Abstract
Nuclear and isotope methods in one form or another are regarded as essential tools for carrying out nutrition research besides enhancing sensitivity of nutrition monitoring techniques. They have been used extensively in industrialized countries to analyze human energy requirements, body composition including bone mineral density, to determine food composition, and to study metabolism of important nutrients such as protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. The information acquired has led to many improvements in nutrition and health. Importantly, the developmental needs of countries in economic transition are being increasingly identified and resolved through field applications of isotopic tools, thus strengthening health and nutrition monitoring. Currently, several strategic applications of isotopic techniques are being introduced in developing countries where they can benefit millions through monitoring improvement in nutritional status, and serve as specific indicators of broader social and economic advances. These examples are highlighted in this report.