Multiple Physiological and Behavioural Parameters Identification for Dietary Monitoring Using Wearable Sensors: A Feasibility Study Protocol

Abstract

Introduction: Traditional dietary intake assessment is labour- and time-consuming and prone to inaccuracies and biases. Emerging wearable sensing technology may offer a promising solution. This protocol paper describes a pilot study investigating the use of a customised wearable multi-sensor wristband, which is specifically designed to monitor multiple physiological and behavioural responses related to eating and digestion events for dietary monitoring. Methods and Analysis: This feasibility study will recruit 10 healthy volunteers from healthy volunteer databases and public advertisements, with informed consent required prior to participation. Participants will attend two main study visits at a clinical research facility, consuming pre-defined high- and low-calorie meals in a randomised order. Wearable sensors will be worn throughout the eating episodes to track hand-to-mouth movements and physiological changes, including skin temperature (Tsk), heart rate (HR), and oxygen saturation (SpO₂). These sensor readings will be validated against a traditional bedside monitor which also measures blood pressure. Blood samples will be collected via intravenous cannula to measure blood glucose, insulin, and hormone levels. Relationship between eating episodes (e.g., occurrence, duration, use of cutlery, high- vs. low-calorie) with hand movement patterns, as well as physiological and blood biochemical responses, will be analysed. The results will inform the feasibility of using measures from wearable multi-sensors as indicators of food and energy intake. Ethics and Dissemination: Ethical approval has been granted by London - Westminster Research Ethics Committee. REC reference: 23/PR/1379. Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, conferences, and seminar presentations. Protocol V.5. protocol date: 16 January 2024. Trial Registration Number: NCT06398340.