The work under way in our Nutrition Center focuses on preventing chronic disease through modifications in diet. Research initially is concentrating in five areas. The emphasis is on preventing the development of atherosclerosis, thus reducing coronary heart disease and stroke and on preventing cholesterol-gallstone disease. Through Diet , especially mineral metabolism, and the relationship between dietary minerals from all sources and bone density and strength. Current studies are designed to determine if postmenopausal bone loss can be prevented through improved nutrition.
Work also includes prevention of osteoarthritis and kidney stones.
Prevention of Obesity, Diabetes and High Blood Pressure Through Diet , especially research on the role that dietary composition including the sugars the body produces from carbohydrates plays in the cause and early progression of hypertension and diabetes, and research on the benefits of long-term caloric restriction. The emphasis is on preventing high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and the chronic diseases fostered by obesity. Role of Nutrition in the Prevention of Cancer , the role of dietary components in the induction and promotion of cancer, including their relationship with genetic risk factors and mutagenesis. Special emphasis is placed on the role of dietary fibers and fats, and on hormone-like substances in plants. The goal is to reduce the incidence of breast, colo-rectal, prostate and other forms of cancer.