The authors submit a new methodical apporoach for the evaluation of dietary habits. The basis is the anamnesestic collection of semiquantitative frequency data by means of a special protocol.The usual daily frequency of consumption of the main food groups is assessed. The basis of evaluation is comparison of the assessed dietary habits with dietary recommendations presented as the so-called food pyramid.The recommended and assessed number of helpings for each food group is compared. The data are automatically processed by means of a special computer programme. The result is a graphic outcome in the shape of a pyramid where the recommended level is expressed by the outline of the pyramid and its different segments which represent food groups while the assessed consumption is presented graphically by the filling of these segments. The numerical outcome is comparison of the recommended consumed number of helpings for each group incl. the percentage of the recommended level. The advantage of the submitted method is its speed, easy processing and above all its illustrative character and comprehensible results which can be used immediately for intervention activities. The method is particularly suited for comprehensive preventive examinations.

        Key words: evaluation of individuial dietary habits - dietary recommendations - food pyramid