How Diet Enhances Our Natural Anti-Cancer Response
September 28, 2017 One of the ways the body controls the overall number of cells is by initiating a preprogrammed cell death routine, known as apoptosis, in damaged or otherwise unnecessary cells. Apoptosis allows elimination of cells without induction of an autoimmune response. A hallmark of many types of cancer cells is a resistance to apoptosis; hence, tumors continue to grow and metastasize. Finding ways to defeat this resistance in cancer cells is an area of active research.
Polyphenols: Colorful, Healthy, Plant Compounds You May Already Eat & Drink
September 28, 2017 – Many of the foods you eat are loaded with polyphenols: plant-based compounds that are anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-infection. Polyphenols are considered non-nutritional, meaning that they help prevent disease and keep you healthy in a different way than vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients like carbohydrates, fats, and protein. David Nieman, DrPH, director of the Appalachian State University Human Performance Lab at the North Carolina Research Campus (NCRC), explains that polyphenols are a type of phytochemical, the colorful chemicals in plants that confer a variety of health benefits. “In many fruits and vegetables, all the colors that you see are the polyphenols,” he says. “That’s what you want, a lot of color in your diet.”
Build Stronger Muscles with All Kinds of Protein
August 28, 2017 – From the desks of Martin Kohlmeier, MD, PhD and Robyn Amos-Kroohs, PhD
Protein is an important part of every cell in the body. Protein is also a building block of enzymes, hormones, and other important substances used in body processes. It’s a major component of most body systems, including the immune system, metabolism, and circulatory system. Its importance is why protein is known as a macronutrient, meaning that large amounts are required to help the body function appropriately on a daily basis. And unlike sugar and fats, macronutrients that have acquired bad reputations, protein is recognized as an important part of a healthy diet.
Free Event: Speed Dating with the NRI
Speed Dating with the NRI: 3-minute Nutrition Theories Rowan Cabarrus Community College | Kannapolis, NC February 8, 2024 at 6 PM This year we’re doing this popular event again! Principal investigators, postdocs, doctoral students, and research specialists will take...
‘Human’ touch improves weight-management apps
This article originally appeared on unc.edu. Written by Scott Jared, University Communications Traditional in-person weight-management programs result in about 10% weight loss over six to 12 months, better results than people get using more convenient smartphone apps....
Your Generosity Fuels Tomorrow’s Discoveries
Curiosity. Intellect. Altruism. At the Nutrition Research Institute (NRI), our pursuit of groundbreaking nutrition solutions is fueled by the relentless spirit of discovery, the ability to empower young minds, and the transformation these individuals bring to...
About the NRI
Deborah F. Tate, PhD
Interim Director
Professor of Nutrition
As a trailblazer in precision nutrition research, the UNC Nutrition Research Institute investigates the intricate interplay between nutrients, lifestyle behaviors, environmental influences, genetic and other biological factors. We’re dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of nutritional diversity among individuals. By leveraging top-tier scientific minds and cutting-edge genetic, metabolic, and digital tools, we’re poised to revolutionize personalized nutrition recommendations and the behavioral support tools needed for realizing healthier futures.
Building upon our legacy as a leader in fundamental and translational science, we’re expanding our reach into human clinical and community trials. I am determined to further this expansion, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of cutting-edge research both in our laboratories and within our communities.
The NRI is forging a path towards a healthier tomorrow for generations to come. Through this website, we aim to keep you informed about our fantastic people, latest developments, participation opportunities, milestones, and community engagements.
Deborah F. Tate, PhD
Core Values
Our Core Values are the shared values to which we commit ourselves for how we conduct our work at the NRI and the way we approach our mission and vision.
Collaboration
We work together to achieve collective and individual goals because we believe that multiple perspectives promote better outcomes.
Innovation
We are innovative and compassionate in our approach to complex issues in precision nutrition.
Cultural Stewardship
We seek to respect the unique qualities of each individual and to foster an environment where open inquiry and expression by all members of this institute are embraced.
Dedication
We are determined to excel in every aspect of our research enterprise.
Integrity
We conduct ourselves with integrity in all our scientific, business and community endeavors.
Research Excellence
We are responsible for conducting publicly and privately funded innovative research with excellence.
We Develop Precision Nutrition
The UNC Nutrition Research Institute is an internationally recognized center that conducts innovative basic and translational science studying how individual differences in requirements and responses to diet affect our individual nutritional needs. We believe that our advances in nutrition science are leading to successes in preventing or mitigating the negative effects of chronic diseases and aging and in improving human development, even prior to conception. → Learn more about Precision Nutrition
UNC-Chapel Hill
The Nutrition Research Institute is part of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. We’re proud of our Carolina heritage and to represent UNC on the North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis.
NC Research Campus
Located in Kannapolis just north of Charlotte, the North Carolina Research Campus brings together eight university research centers along with industry, government, and nonprofit partners to advance human health through nutrition. Together, scientists study precision nutrition and work to develop safer, more nutritious crops and foods.
Kannapolis, NC
Kannapolis, North Carolina, just north of Charlotte, is a growing city with deep roots in textile history and a strong focus on the future. Home to the North Carolina Research Campus, Kannapolis brings together universities, innovators, and community partners in a walkable downtown setting with parks, local dining, and year-round events.
Where We Are
UNC Nutrition Research Institute
500 Laureate Way
Kannapolis, NC 28081
704-250-5000
UNC Nutrition Research Institute
Research Spotlight
“GLP-1 medications don’t just change your appetite. They also change how your body absorbs and handles nutrients,” noted Evan Paules, PhD, postdoctoral research fellow. “As these medications become more widely used, we need to understand how they might shift nutrient needs, including choline, so we can keep people healthy while they are on them.”
Research that transforms lives.
PUBLICATIONS FROM OUR RESEARCHERS
Precision Nutrition Training and Mentoring
Research Spotlight
Evaluating the Evolving Real-World Adverse Events of GLP-1RAs Using FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS)
NRI Contributor: Stephen D. Hursting, PhD, MPH
Obesity remains one of the most urgent public health challenges of our time, contributing to conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
GLP-1 receptor agonists have emerged as promising tools for obesity and weight management, offering new opportunities to improve cardiometabolic health. But as their use grows, so does the need to better understand their safety in real-world settings.
Research that transforms lives.
PUBLICATIONS FROM OUR RESEARCHERS
Nutri-epigenetics of Mitochondrial Function and Energy Homeostasis in Obesity
How nutrition-related epigenetic changes may disrupt mitochondrial function and energy homeostasis, helping drive obesity beyond the effects of genetics, diet, and physical activity alone.
Choline, Lipidomics, and MASLD: Insights From the CARDIA Study
Certain blood lipids and choline-related metabolites were linked to fatty liver disease, suggesting they may help explain risk and serve as possible biomarkers.
Holding the Line: Preventing Weight Gain in Emotional Eaters
Weight gain prevention is a critical component of comprehensive obesity care. Emotional eating may contribute to unwanted weight gain, increasing cardiometabolic risk factors among adults with obesity.