Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Commons^™

Disability-Related Educational Content In Nutrition And Dietetic Programs: An Exploratory Study, Wendy Medunick, Allison Gomes, Joachim Sackey, Laura Byham-Gray, Jane Ziegler

Journal of Dietetic Education

Background: Health disparities experienced by people with disabilities (PWD) are partly attributed to inadequate knowledge, training, confidence and competence regarding disabilities among health professionals. While registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) are key members of the healthcare team, it is unclear how pre-professional nutrition and dietetics (ND) programs prepare future RDNs to care for PWD. This study examined the status of disability-related education within ND programs in the United States. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional electronic survey was distributed to 570 directors of accredited ND programs. The survey, which adapted questions from a previously validated instrument and published studies, included questions assessing disability-related …

Assessing And Addressing Cultural Competence And Cultural Humility In Dietetic Education, Zoe Duran, Nicholas Slagel, Lisa Caldwell, Katie Kage

Journal of Dietetic Education

Limited theory-informed, dietetic-specific resources are available to guide the development, evaluation, and refinement of culturally competent (CC) curricula. This pilot study used a mixed-methods, theory-informed approach to evaluate CC integration within an undergraduate dietetics curriculum and examine the applicability of existing CC self-assessment tools for dietetic students. A senior-level undergraduate community nutrition curriculum was evaluated using the Tool for Assessing Cultural Competence Training (TACCT), guided by the Campinha-Bacote Model of Cultural Competence in Healthcare Delivery. James Banks’ Model of Multicultural Curriculum Reform was then applied to refine curricular content and learning activities. In addition, 74 students enrolled in a didactic …

Virtual Reality: The Future Of Didactic And Experiential Education For Nutrition And Dietetics, Michael Holik, Dexter Richardson

Journal of Dietetic Education

The integration of virtual reality (VR) into nutrition and dietetics education provides an innovative answer to challenges in accessing experiential learning. This study examined student perceptions of immersive VR experiences designed to simulate hospital foodservice operations and nutrition counseling sessions, guided by the Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DOI). A quasi-experimental design involved 55 participants who engaged with 360° VR modules featuring interactive elements, avatars representing key healthcare roles, and embedded critical-thinking questions. Results demonstrated strong support for VR’s educational value across DOI’s five key attributes: relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, and observability. Participants reported enhanced understanding of registered dietitian roles, …

The Effect Of Boosting Dietary Lactobacillus And Phytochemical Rich Foods On Biomarkers Of Longevity—A Phase Ii Randomised Placebo Controlled Trial, Robert J. Thomas, Madeleine Williams, Jeffrey W.F. Aldous, Stacey A. Kenfield, Robert U. Newton

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

As men age, systemic inflammation increases, whereas grip strength (GS) and testosterone levels tend to fall. This rate of decline is known to be influenced by gut microbial health, lifestyle and diet but the role for interventions to slow this decline are less well established. This double-blind randomised controlled trial evaluated the impact, and explored the synergistic potential, of boosting phytochemical rich foods and Lactobacillus probiotics on these physical and biological markers. Two hundred and eight men with untreated early prostate cancer managed with observation only (average age 74 years) received a phytochemical rich supplement (PRS) containing concentrated broccoli, green …

Protective Potential Of Minimally Processed, Plant-Derived Foods Against Steatotic Liver Disease In Early Adulthood, Yasmina Tashkent, Jocelyn M. Choo, Steven L. Taylor, Therese A. O'Sullivan, Dujinthan Jayabalan, Sophie J. Miller, Richard Woodman, Luis Calzadilla-Bertot, Oyekoya T. Ayonrinde, Lawrence J. Beilin, Trevor A. Mori, John K. Olynyk, Alan J. Wigg, Kate R. Muller, Leon A. Adams, Geraint B. Rogers

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background & aims: The incidence of steatotic liver disease (SLD) among younger adults is increasing globally. While poor diet is a recognised risk factor, the impact of specific dietary components is unclear. We investigated associations between dietary patterns and SLD markers in younger adults. Methods: Analysis involved 887 members of the Raine Study Generation 2 cohort, assessed at age 27. SLD was defined using a validated MRI volumetric liver fat fraction equation. Dietary intake, assessed by food frequency questionnaires, was summarised using a modified Overall Diet Score (ODS) that classified foods as “healthy” or “unhealthy.” Associations between diet and SLD …

The Impact Of Increased Beef Intake On Cardiometabolic Health In Postmenopausal Women: A 16-Week Randomized Controlled Trial, Leen Samman

Biological Sciences Undergraduate Honors Theses

By 2030, it is projected that the number of post-menopausal women globally will reach 1.2 billion. Moreover, because of increases in life expectancy, women will spend a greater proportion of their later years at elevated risk of chronic disease associated with the hormonal changes of the menopausal transition. Dietary interventions, specifically high-protein diets have shown potential mitigating effects; however, most interventions have focused on total protein intake or protein supplements, not whole foods like lean beef. This randomized controlled trial aimed to assess the effects of daily lean beef consumption as part of a higher protein diet on cardiometabolic markers …

Easy Travel-Friendly Snack Recipes For College Students To Support Mental Well-Being, Lidia Vides

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

College is a pivotal period in life of a young adult, marked by newfound independence, increased responsibilities, heightened academic pressure, and significant changes in daily routine. While this transition can often be exciting for a young adult, it also presents many different challenges. As a result, many students experience increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Nutrition plays a powerful yet often overlooked role in supporting mental and physical health. Current research studies show that a balanced diet rich in whole food ingredients can help regulate mood and promote emotional well-being through multiple biological pathways. However, despite this knowledge, convenient, …

How Are Women Dealing With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?, Adrianna A. Brown

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background and Aims: PCOS is one of the leading multisystem conditions among women of reproductive age. Dietary changes may help improve outcomes associated with PCOS and its comorbidities. While a lower carbohydrate, moderate protein diet is often recommended, those with PCOS often use temporary diets or dietary supplements instead of or in addition to prescription medications due to dissatisfaction with their treatment options. Additionally, studies examining the usefulness of supplements and their effects on PCOS symptoms are lacking. This study explored the prevalence of use of temporary diets, prescription medications, and dietary supplements among women with PCOS.

Methods: An anonymous …

The Effect Of Low And High-Carbohydrate Diets On Memory Performance In College Students, Samia Baugh, Zoe Zajko, Jamie Analuisa, Ivanna Jacome

Department of Nutrition Student Projects

Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for the brain and play an important role in processes related to memory performance. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of a low-carbohydrate diet compared to a high-carbohydrate diet on memory performance in college students aged 18–22 years. For the purposes of this study, a low-carbohydrate diet is defined as a diet providing fewer than 130 grams of carbohydrates per day, while a high-carbohydrate diet provides approximately 325 grams of carbohydrates. This population is particularly important to study because college students experience high academic demands that require strong memory …

Ten Tips On How To Optimize Nutrition In Children With Chronic Kidney Disease Or On Dialysis., Nonnie Polderman, Vanessa Shaw, Caroline E. Anderson, An Desloovere, Louise Mcalister, Christina L. Nelms, Fabio Paglialonga, Pearl Pugh, Leila Qizalbash, Evelien Snauwaert, José Renken-Terhaerdt, Jetta Tuokkola, Larry A. Greenbaum, Rukshana Shroff

Manuscripts, Articles, Book Chapters and Other Papers

Optimal nutrition is central to growth and development in all children, and is particularly relevant in those with chronic illnesses. This document provides 10 practical, evidence-informed tips on the assessment and management of the nutritional prescription in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and those receiving dialysis. The 10 tips synthesize work of the Paediatric Renal Nutrition Taskforce, an international team of pediatric renal dietitians and pediatric nephrologists who develop clinical practice recommendations for the nutritional management of children with kidney diseases. We describe a comprehensive, three-dimensional nutritional assessment (anthropometry, dietary intake, biochemical markers) and regular monitoring tailored to age, …

Conclusions Are Not Supported By The Published Statistical Analysis Comment On López-Toledo Et Al Flaxseed Improves Glucose And Lipid Metabolism In Mexican Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes: A Parallel Randomized Clinical Trial, Robert W Spitz, Deependra K Thapa, Thirupathi Reddy Mokalla, Wasiuddin Najam, Andrew W Brown, David B Allison

Children’s Nutrition Research Center Staff Publications

López-Toledo et al [...].

Low Energy Availability (Lea) And Its Relationship To Nutritional Status And Bone Health In Collegiate Athletes, Anthony Dempsey

UNH URC Open (2026 and after)

This project aims to identify low energy availability in a sample of collegiate athletes and explore the relationship with bone mineral density and nutrient deficiencies. Participants (n=3,407) were recruited from a northeast university and self-reported athlete status and physical activity via online questionnaire. Food records were used to calculate energy and nutrient intake. Anthropometrics including height, weight, body composition and bone mineral status were measured in duplicate. Energy availability (EA) was calculated as (Energy Intake (EI) -Exercising Energy Expenditure) (EEE)) /Fat Free Mass (FFM) (kg) and categorized as optimal (>45 kcal/kg FFM), subclinical, or clinically low (< 30 kcal/kg FFM). Fifteen percent of participants were characterized as athletes (club or division I varsity); mean EA was lower among athletes vs. nonathletes (17.90.7vs.21.90.3, p< .001). Males were more likely to have optimal EA status vs. females (8.8vs4.7%, p< .001). Most females (75.1%) were categorized as clinically LEA; 20.3% had subclinical LEA. Among men, athletes’ EA was similar to nonathletes (21.11.2vs22.20.5, p=.4); among females, athletes had lower EA vs. nonathletes (16.220.9vs21.70.3, p< .001). Males with clinically low EA were most likely to consume inadequate intakes of potassium, fiber, iron, and vitamin D (77.1,94.0,10.4 and 97.3%, respectively); similarly, females with clinically low EA, were most likely to consume inadequate intakes (81.9,87.6,88.3, and 99.5%, respectively). Bone z-scores were higher among athletes vs. non athletes (-.27±.06vs-.67±.02, p< .001) but were not different by EA status. Given the prevalence of LEA within the college athlete and nonathlete populations, further research and tailored nutritional education is needed for this at-risk population.

Smarter Nutrition: Right-Sizing Nutritional Monitoring In Patients On Crrt, David Zolezzi, Elizabeth Journey, Jayne Walters

2026

No abstract provided.

Dietary Micronutrients And The Risk Of Gestational Diabetes: Evidence From A Tertiary Care Setting In India, Sujatha Mahadevarao Premnath, Moneesh Sivasoupramaniane, Maghida S

Digital Journal of Clinical Medicine

Background: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a significant health concern in India, affecting nearly 22.4% of pregnant women. While macronutrient roles are well explored, the impact of micronutrients on GDM risk, particularly with the Indian ethnic phenotype, requires exploration

Objectives: To compare the micronutrient intake between GDM and non-GDM pregnancies and evaluate the association between specific dietary micronutrients and GDM risk

Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among 115 South Indian pregnant women. Dietary history was taken using 24-hour recalls on two occasions and analysed via the Indian Food Composition Table (IFCT). GDM was diagnosed using International Association of …

Gastrointestinal Symptoms Associated With Sodium Bicarbonate Supplementation Protocols: A Systematic Review, Ian P. Winter, Paul Sarac, Patrick B. Wilson

Exercise Science Faculty Publications

Sodium bicarbonate positively impacts performance, but its associated gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS) may limit use. This systematic review synthesized literature that has evaluated GIS with sodium bicarbonate supplementation. Literature searches were performed from February 2024-March 2026. Eligible studies provided ≥ 5 g of sodium bicarbonate within a 24-h period or, if a multi-day protocol, at least one day involving ≥ 5 g. Included studies had a placebo group/condition or a comparison group/condition that created a contrast related to delivery method, form, or dose. In total, 101 investigations were summarized in six categories: acute single dosing (n = 35); acute spread dosing …

The Gut Microbiome Mediates The Association Between A Flavonoid-Rich Diet And Masld In A Population-Level Analysis, William Bell, Amy Jennings, Nicola P. Bondonno, Andre Franke, Corinna Bang, Marcus Both, Jan Kassubek, Hans Peter Müller, Jan Borggrefe, Wolfgang Lieb, Tilman Kühn, Aedín Cassidy

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Purpose: A growing body of evidence suggests diets rich in flavonoids may protect against metabolic-dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) development and progression. As the gut microbiome is important in the biotransformation of flavonoids to their constituent bioactive metabolites, studies on the potential mediating role of the gut microbiome in the association between dietary flavonoid intakes and MASLD are warranted but lacking. Thus, this study aims to examine the associations between a diet rich in flavonoids and MASLD, and assess the potential mediating role of the gut microbiome. Methods: In a cross-sectional analysis (n = 531), using the FlavoDiet score …

Association Between Protein Intake From Animal And Plant Sources And The Presence Of Frailty In Community-Dwelling Australian Women, Trent Bozanich, Jack Dalla Via, Simone Radavelli-Bagatini, Cassandra Smith, Elsa Dent, Anthony Villani, Robin M. Daly, Michael Tieland, Jonathan M. Hodgson, Kun Zhu, Richard L. Prince, Marc Sim

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

We investigated the cross-sectional association between total, animal and plant protein intake with the presence of a multidimensional measure of frailty in older women. Participants included 1380 community-dwelling Australian women, mean (SD) age 75.1 (2.7) years. A validated food frequency questionnaire was used to determine total, plant, and animal protein intake. Frailty was assessed using a frailty index across numerous health domains (scored 0–1, ≥0.25 indicating frailty). Cross-sectional associations were analysed using multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models. In total, 275 (19.9%) women were identified as frail. A non-linear inverse association was observed between higher intakes of total protein and the odds …

Sleep-Disordered Breathing Subtypes And Future Diet Quality In The Multi-Ethnic Study Of Atherosclerosis, Kaitlin S Potts, Cecilia Castro-Diehl, Tianyi Huang, Alexis C Wood, Jerome I Rotter, Stephen S Rich, Tamar Sofer, Susan Redline, Heming Wang

Children’s Nutrition Research Center Staff Publications

Objectives: Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and diet quality impact cardiometabolic disease, but few studies have examined if SDB influences diet quality. This study estimated the association between SDB subtypes (with and without sleepiness) and future diet quality in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis.

Methods: Probable SDB was characterized by self-reported physician-diagnosed sleep apnea (PDSA) or habitual snoring and subtyped by presence or absence of sleepiness. A food frequency questionnaire measured diet 1.6 years before, and 7.8 years after SDB assessment. Diet quality was measured with the Alternate Healthy Eating Index-2010 (AHEI). Mean differences in AHEI at follow-up by SDB subtypes were …

Food Neophobia And Its Prevalence Among College Students In The United States, Joanne Mwendi Ponnappa

Master's Theses

Food neophobia “the reluctance to try unfamiliar foods” may influence diet variety and cultural food acceptance among young adults. College students represent a critical group for studying this behavior, as they are developing independent eating habits that can persist into adulthood. This study examined the prevalence of food neophobia among U.S. college students and evaluated how academic background, travel, cultural exposure, and demographic factors influence openness to trying unfamiliar foods. A cross-sectional online survey was administered via Qualtrics to 264 college students across the United States. The Food Neophobia Scale (FNS; Pliner & Hobden, 1992) was used to assess reluctance …

Hungry Minds: Analyzing The Impact Of Food Insecurity And Food Assistance Programs On Neurocognitive Development And Childhood Mental Health, Kayla A. Davenport

Senior Theses

Introduction: Food insecurity affects millions of children in the United States and is increasingly recognized as a significant risk factor for poor nutritional intake and adverse health outcomes. However, less is known about how the experience of food insecurity disrupts healthy development and well-being, particularly among American youth. This thesis had two aims: (1) to examine the relationship between household food insecurity and children’s neurocognitive and mental health outcomes and (2) to evaluate how major food assistance programs address, or fail to address, these developmental risks.

Methods: This thesis uses a mixed-methods approach, integrating a narrative literature review, a cross-sectional …

Eating Habits, Eating Behavior Mediators, Body Composition And Physical Fitness Among Rotc Cadets, Kaitlin Renee Hanks

Master's Theses

The physical and mental demands of the military and the requirement to maintain body composition standards make healthful eating essential to military service. Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) cadets are a unique subgroup of the United States military, and the combined demands of their military training and educational pursuits may increase their susceptibility to unhealthy eating patterns. The purpose of this study is to describe the relationship between eating habits, eating behavior mediators, body composition, and physical fitness among ROTC cadets. This study used a cross-sectional design that included an online survey, an inperson body composition assessment, and carotenoid measurements …

Lactation Management Training In Graduate Nutrition And Dietetics Programs: A Preliminary Report, Laura Ashton Gillin

Master's Theses

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding (BF) for the first six months and continued breastfeeding for at least two years with complementary food. Despite this recommendation, only 24.9% of infants in the United States are exclusively breastfed at six months (Breastfeeding Report Card 2022). Breastfeeding support and lactation management are critical to promoting a successful breastfeeding experience. Specifically, qualified support from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) is recommended, yet graduate students in Nutrition and Dietetics do not receive adequate training regarding breastfeeding intervention. This study aimed to evaluate graduate Nutrition and Dietetic programs to determine the amount of …

Beyond Their Nutritional Value, School Meal Programs Support Agricultural And Food Transition Toward Sustainability By Creating Multi-Sectoral Values In France, Sylvie Avallone, Sophie Nicklaus, Céline Giner, Juliana Cohen, Stéphane Verguet

Health Sciences Faculty Publications

The COVID pandemic has highlighted the essential role of school meal programs, not only for education but also for children’s nutrition. In France, school meals are shaped by ambitious policies to ensure their safety and nutritional quality, while promoting sustainable eating practices and awareness of environmental and agricultural challenges. In this article, we used the case study of France to discuss the multi-sectoral value of these programs. The economic value of school meals in France amounts to €8.2 billion annually, of which 2.8 billion are dedicated to food purchases. Since 2022, the EGAlim and Climate and Resilience laws require canteens …

Knowledge And Perceptions Of Prebiotics And Probiotics Among University Students, Itzel Martinez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: Gut health gained significant attention in recent years, with prebiotics and probiotics widely promoted for their potential health benefits. However, misinformation about this topic was common, particularly among young adults who were heavily influenced by social media and advertising on health-related topics. Research studies had indicated that knowledge and perceptions of prebiotics and probiotics are based on factors such as age, gender, and academic background. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and perceptions of university students on prebiotic and probiotic foods, identify commonly used resources for information, and analyze the impact of media and demographic variables on their …

The Rise Of Nutrition Misinformation: Impact On The Credibility Of Registered Dietitians In Practice, Sarah Owens

Honors Theses

With the rise of social media usage, misinformation on health and nutrition has increased in the last decade. The consequences of this misinformation by social media users has been documented in research, although the effects of misinformation on registered dietitians (RDs) in the United States have not been extensively studied. This thesis examines how the credibility of RDs is affected by unregulated nutrition information and counseling on social media (e.g. by “wellness influencers") using a qualitative survey of twenty-seven RDs licensed and registered in the U.S. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis methods to determine recurring responses and themes among …

Role Of The Pediatric Rdn In Conducting The Pediatric Nutrition Focused Physical Exam: Training, Clinical Practice And Barriers, Sarah M. Kowalewski

Masters Theses, 2020-current

Abstract:

Background: The pediatric nutrition focused physical exam (PNFPE) is important for completing comprehensive assessment in pediatric patients, particularly those at risk for malnutrition. The PNFPE helps to identify the depletion of fat and muscle stores, as well as micronutrient deficiencies.

Methods: Pediatric RDNs, self-identified through CDR and practice group membership, were surveyed-to investigate their training, clinical practice, documentation, and barriers to use of the PNFPE. The survey instrument, validated by content experts and analyzed for reliability, was approved by our university’s IRB.

Results: A total of 65.8% of respondents held a graduate degree and 81.6% held a specialty certification. …

Utilizing Registered Dietitians To Improve Nutrition Education For Medical Students, Andee James, Pasquale Manzerra

Scholarship Pathways Program

Despite the well-established link between nutrition and chronic disease prevention, medical education continues to underemphasize nutrition training. This study explores the impact of integrating registered dietitians (RDs) into pre-clerkship medical education to enhance students’ knowledge, confidence, and perception of nutrition in clinical care. A series of optional, system-based nutrition lectures were delivered by RDs and supplemented by senior medical students who shared real-world clinical case studies. Pre- and post-session surveys assessed students’ confidence in providing dietary counseling, understanding of the physician’s and dietitian’s roles, and the perceived importance of nutrition in disease management. Results showed significant improvements across all metrics, …

Empowering Youth Through Cooking Classes, Jamiya C. Mason

Honors Theses

Chronic health issues and poor dietary habits continue to disproportionately impact rural communities in Mississippi, especially among children. Research has shown that early exposure to healthy foods and cooking practices can positively influence lifelong health behaviors. Cooking classes have also been linked to improved food literacy, culinary confidence, and willingness to try new foods. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of a short-term culinary program on children’s cooking self-efficacy and food behaviors in Quitman County, Mississippi.

Four cooking classes were conducted with youth (grades 4–7) in a local after-school program. Lessons included vegetable-based recipes, including zucchini …

Building Community Through Food And Health: Student Initiatives To Address Food Insecurity In Mississippi, Sarah E. Sawaya

Honors Theses

This thesis explores food insecurity in Oxford and Lafayette County, Mississippi, within the broader context of state, national, and global challenges. Over a four-year period, student-led and community organizations collaborated to design programs that addressed both food access and chronic illness prevention through education, outreach, and direct service. Community input was gathered through health screenings, campus engagement, and informal interviews with residents, which guided the development of practical tools like recipe kits, QR code-based cookbooks, and on-site health education. These efforts were rooted in local partnerships and shaped by the lived experiences of those most affected. This project demonstrates that …

Analyzing The Association Of Competitive Food Policy On Competitive Food Content In U.S. Schools., Mary E. Curnutte

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

OBJECTIVES: School food can have a profound effect on the population’s health. Thirty million children receive food at school and consume half their daily calorie intake at school. Competitive foods are foods sold outside of school breakfast and lunch, such as those sold in vending machines. A new ruling for Smart Snacks Standards, a set of competitive food guidelines, started in the school year 2014-2015. It is known that competitive foods undermine school lunch participation, and a decrease in school lunch consumption is associated with poorer student health. Additionally, an increase in competitive foods tends to be of nutrient-poor …