
Research in our laboratory focuses on the role of nutrition (particularly vitamins and minerals) in the prevention and management of chronic diseases in older adults. Previous studies have concerned trace elements and cardiovascular disease, calcium and osteoporosis, and renal synthesis of vitamin D as it relates to bone health. Some of our newest work emphasizes the role of micronutrients as antioxidants and their interaction with the aging process. We are also working on various aspects of energy balance in older adults, ranging from failure to thrive in stroke patients with dysphagia to exercise and nutrition effects in overweight subjects who begin physical training. Thus we have a number of clinical and epidemiological projects on-going, many of which include a strong emphasis on nutrition assessment techniques in middle-aged and elderly subjects.
Education and Training
- Ph.D., University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 1981
Grants
- Behavior and Physiology in Aging
- Changes in Weight and Physical Function for Older African American Women in National, Peer-Led, Community-Based Weight Loss Program
- Weight loss, in vivo cartilage mechanics, and joint health
- Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity and Health: NC Consortium Clinical Site
- Impact of Egg Consumption during Obesity Reduction on Phospholipids and Inflammation in Older Adults with Prediabetes
- Building Interdisciplinary Research Careers in Women's Health
- Weight loss and exercise to improve rheumatoid arthritis cardiovascular risk