The NHANES III assessed dietary intakes of its participants by using ____.

The correct answer indicates that NHANES III used both 24-hour recalls and food frequency questionnaires to assess dietary intakes of its participants. This combination is particularly effective because it allows for the capture of both detailed short-term dietary habits and longer-term consumption patterns.

24-hour recalls involve participants recalling everything they consumed in the previous day, providing specific and immediate dietary data. This method is valuable for understanding short-term intake and identifying recent dietary behaviors.

Food frequency questionnaires, on the other hand, gather information over a longer period by asking participants to report how often they consume various foods within a specified timeframe. This approach helps to understand typical dietary patterns and can highlight regular consumption trends that may not be captured through a single day of reporting.

By utilizing both methods, NHANES III was able to gain a comprehensive view of participants' dietary patterns, addressing both immediate intake and typical consumption over time. This dual approach enhances the reliability of the dietary assessment, allowing for better population health monitoring and research outcomes related to nutrition.