research questions nutrition

293 Good Nutrition Research Topics & Ideas

Icon Calendar 18 May 2024
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Nutrition research topics encompass a wide study spectrum of explorations in dietary science and human health. They often delve into various areas like nutritional epidemiology that analyzes possible correlations between diet patterns and disease incidence. Nutrigenomics studies how specific nutrients impact gene expression, while functional foods evaluate the health benefits of particular food components. Additional study areas include research into eating disorders and how socioeconomic factors influence diet. Child and prenatal nutrition form a critical aspect, examining how early dietary habits shape long-term health. Sustainability and public health nutrition also make key research areas, investigating global food supply issues and dietary policy development. Such studies may employ methods from biochemical analysis to large-scale population surveys. Therefore, nutrition research topics underscore nutrition’s vital role in supporting human health and well-being.

Best Nutrition Research Topics

Balancing Macronutrients for Optimal Health
Sugar’s Influence on Obesity Rates
Vitamin D Deficiency: Consequences and Prevalence
Benefits of Probiotics and Gut Health
Ketogenic Diet and Cognitive Function
Childhood Obesity and Nutritional Interventions
Intermittent Fasting: Health Benefits and Drawbacks
Influence of Dietary Fiber on Digestive Health
Mediterranean Diet’s Correlation with Longevity
Plant-Based Diets and Cardiovascular Health
Link Between Nutrition and Mental Health
Analyzing the Nutritional Content of Fast Food
Antioxidant-Rich Foods and Their Benefits
Dietary Strategies for Managing Diabetes
Optimal Nutrition for Athletic Performance
Food Deserts and Nutrition Inequality
Effects of Caffeine on Human Health
Exploring the Health Impact of Organic Foods
Prebiotics in Dietary Interventions for Gut Health
Nutritional Implications of Food Allergies and Intolerance

Easy Nutrition Research Paper Topics

Understanding Food Labels: Nutrition Facts Explained
Health Benefits of Drinking Enough Water
Whole Foods vs. Processed Foods: A Comparative Analysis
Exploring Different Types of Dietary Fats
Roles of Fruits and Vegetables in a Balanced Diet
Impacts of Excessive Salt Intake on Health
Gluten-Free Diet: Health Fad or Essential for Some?
Why Is Breakfast Considered an Important Meal?
Assessing the Nutritional Value of Dairy Products
Influence of Proper Hydration on Athletic Performance
Examining the Popularity of Superfoods
Detox Diets: Do They Really Work?
Health Consequences of Consuming Fast Food
Unpacking the Concept of Calorie Counting
Investigating the Health Benefits of Tea vs. Coffee
Importance of Balanced Nutrition for Children
Defining and Understanding the Concept of ‘Organic’ Food
Exploring the Dangers of Sugar Addiction
Demystifying the Health Claims of Popular Diets

Interesting Nutrition Research Topics

Algae as a Sustainable Source of Nutrients
Deconstructing the Paleo Diet: Benefits and Drawbacks
Nutritional Genomics: Personalizing Diets Based on DNA
Integrating Edible Insects Into Western Diets
Ayurvedic Diet Principles and Health Outcomes
Assessing the Nutritional Claims of Energy Drinks
Nootropics and Nutrition: Enhancing Cognitive Function Through Diet
Linking Mindful Eating and Nutritional Health
Food Combinations for Maximum Nutrient Absorption
Influence of the Microbiome on Nutrient Metabolism
Exploring Nutritional Differences in Various Cooking Methods
Examining Nutrient Density: The Best Bang for Your Calorie Buck
Investigating the Nutritional Pros and Cons of Food Fortification
Fasting Mimicking Diets and Longevity
Analyzing the Nutritional Value of Plant-Based Meat Alternatives
Investigating the Nutrition of Space Food for Astronauts
Nutritional Interventions in Managing Autoimmune Diseases
Roles of Nutrition in Aging Well
Fermented Foods and Gut Health: A Deep Dive
Unraveling the Science Behind Chocolate and Health

Nutrition Research Paper Topics for High School

Healthy Eating Habits for Teenagers
Examining Nutritional Needs During Adolescence
Junk Food Consumption and Health Consequences
Importance of Calcium Intake for Teens
Sports Nutrition for Young Athletes
Analyzing the School Lunch Program’s Nutritional Content
Effects of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages on Youth Health
Understanding Eating Disorders: Anorexia and Bulimia
Debate on Mandatory Nutrition Education in Schools
Impacts of Vegetarianism on Teen Health
Influence of Social Media on Teenage Nutrition Choices
Investigating the Health Risks of Teen Dieting
Iron Needs and Deficiency in Adolescents
Body Image, Peer Pressure, and Nutrition
Relationship Between Nutrition and Acne in Teenagers
Nutrition Strategies for Managing Teen Stress
Vitamin B Complex: Importance for Teens
Why Is Protein Crucial for Teen Development?
Exploring Teenage Obesity: Causes and Prevention
Understanding Food Addiction in Teenagers

Nutrition Research Topics for College Students

Managing Healthy Eating in College
Nutritional Challenges of Vegetarian and Vegan Students
Effects of Alcohol on Nutrition and Health
Importance of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Brain Function
Deciphering Food Marketing and Labeling
College Athletes and Nutritional Needs
Understanding and Avoiding the ‘Freshman 15’
Nutrition Strategies for Sleep-Deprived Students
Nutritional Contributions to Mental Health in College
Benefits of Home Cooking vs. Eating Out
Correlation Between Nutrition and Academic Performance
Effects of Coffee Consumption on College Students
Examining Eating Disorders in College Populations
Nutritional Implications of Late-Night Snacking
Vitamins and Supplements: Necessity or Luxury?
Influence of Diet on Mood and Stress
Understanding the Ketogenic Diet
Impact of Fast Food Culture on College Life
Decoding the Nutritional Value of Smoothies

Research Topics for Nutrition of Students

Student Diets and Their Effect on Concentration
Assessing the Nutritional Status of University Students
Connections Between Nutrition and Students’ Mental Health
Study Habits and Their Influence on Students’ Eating Patterns
Evaluating School Canteens for Nutritional Quality
Impacts of Excessive Caffeine Intake on Students
Prevalence of Eating Disorders Amongst University Students
Nutritional Deficiencies in College Student Populations
How Stress Affects Eating Habits of Students
Factors Affecting Healthy Eating Choices in Students
Link Between Students’ Diets and Their Physical Activity
Effects of Alcohol Consumption on Students’ Nutritional Intake
Influence of Food Advertising on Students’ Diet Choices
Benefits and Drawbacks of Dietary Supplements for Students
Food Insecurity Among University Students
Assessing the Impact of Campus Dining on Student Health
Exploring Vegan and Vegetarian Trends Among Students
Investigating Links Between Breakfast Habits and Academic Performance
Relationship Between Social Life and Eating Habits in University Students
Preventing Malnutrition in Low-Income Student Populations

Research Topics About Essential Nutrients

Exploration of Vitamin D Deficiency in Northern Climates
Analysis of Iron Deficiency Anemia in the Modern Age
Effect of High Fiber Diets on Digestive Disorders
Correlation Between B-Vitamin Intake and Cognitive Function
Decoding the Nutritional Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Significance of Vitamin K in Bone Health and Coagulation
Investigating Zinc’s Contribution to Immune System Function
Understanding the Metabolism of Water-Soluble Vitamins
Elucidating the Bioavailability of Different Forms of Calcium
How Magnesium Regulates Neuromuscular Transmission and Other Biochemical Reactions
Investigating the Correlation Between Selenium and Thyroid Function
Assessing the Contribution of Essential Fatty Acids to Mental Health
Exploring Copper Deficiency and Its Effects on Health
Examining Vitamin A and Its Contribution to Vision Health
Deciphering the Biochemistry of Essential Amino Acids
Bioavailability and Metabolic Pathways of Vitamin E
Study of Iodine and Its Importance in Thyroid Health
Nutritional Genomics: Tailoring Diets to Individual Nutrient Needs
Investigation Into Potassium’s Role in Cardiovascular Health

Food Choices and Nutrition Research Topics

Influence of Fast Food Advertising on Dietary Habits
Navigating Veganism: Nutritional Challenges and Solutions
Dietary Intake and Its Link to Chronic Diseases
Comparing Nutrient Content: Home-Cooked Meals vs. Takeout
Assessing Food Labels for Nutritional Accuracy
Rise of Plant-Based Diets: Health and Environmental Impacts
Balanced Diet for Athletes: Performance and Recovery
Eating Disorders: Nutritional Aspects and Intervention Strategies
Optimizing Diets for Aging Populations: Nutritional Needs and Limitations
Malnutrition in Developing Countries: Causes and Solutions
Organic Food Consumption: Health Benefits and Misconceptions
How Social Factors Shape Our Food Choices
Effects of Sugar Consumption on Metabolic Health
Mediterranean Diet: Health Benefits and Implementation
Cultural Diversity in Dietary Practices: An Overview
Eating Habits in College: The Freshman Fifteen Phenomenon
Food Deserts’ Impact on Community Health
Understanding the Nutritional Implications of Food Allergies
Gluten-Free Diets: Health Implications and Misconceptions

Food Groups in Nutrition Research Paper Topics

Whole Grains and Digestive Health: A Comprehensive Study
Dairy Products and Bone Health: Decoding the Connection
Analyzing Nutritional Components of Various Fruits
Exploring the Health Benefits of Different Vegetables
Redefining the Food Pyramid: An In-Depth Analysis
Meat Consumption and Its Implications for Human Health
Poultry and Fish: Comparative Nutritional Values
Legumes and Pulses: Unexplored Nutritional Goldmines
Roles of Nuts and Seeds in Reducing Chronic Diseases
Influence of Processed Foods on Modern Dietary Patterns
Understanding the Nutritional Powerhouse: Leafy Greens
Eggs: Nutrient-Dense Food or Cholesterol Culprit?
Debunking Myths Surrounding Soy Products
Seafood Nutrition: Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Beyond
Mushrooms: A Forgotten Food Group With Nutritional Richness
Food Synergy in Combining Different Food Groups
Whole Foods vs. Refined Foods: Nutritional Differences
Roles of Fermented Foods in Gut Health
Deciphering the Nutritional Content of Root Vegetables
Unsaturated Fats: Health Benefits of Avocados and Olives

Healthy Nutrition Research Topics

Dietary Fibers and Cardiovascular Health: A Detailed Exploration
Probiotics for Gut Health: Understanding the Mechanisms
Antioxidants in Berries: The Shield Against Oxidative Stress
Nutritional Approaches for Managing Diabetes: A Comprehensive Study
The Interplay of Sodium and Potassium in Blood Pressure Regulation
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: The Key to Heart Health
Minerals in Human Health: Exploring the Underrated Components
Examining the Health Benefits of Polyphenols
Vitamin D and Bone Health: Going Beyond Calcium
Holistic Health Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet
Relevance of Hydration in Physical Health and Performance
Nutrition’s Influence on Mental Health: Decoding the Gut-Brain Axis
Unraveling the Connections: Obesity and Nutritional Imbalances
Iodine, Thyroid Health, and Metabolism: A Detailed Investigation
Importance of Amino Acids in Muscle Health and Recovery
Iron Deficiency: Anemia and Beyond
Magnesium: An Essential Nutrient for Nervous System Functioning
Power of Zinc in Immune Health and Disease Resistance
The Link Between Nutrition and Skin Health: An In-Depth Analysis

Nutrition Research Topics on Dietetics

Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension: A Dietitian’s Perspective
Understanding the Science Behind Ketogenic Diets
Vegetarian and Vegan Diets: Nutrient Adequacy and Health Implications
Clinical Nutrition in Managing Chronic Kidney Disease
Intervention Strategies in Pediatric Obesity: A Dietetic Approach
Effectiveness of Mediterranean Diet in Chronic Disease Prevention
Influence of Low-FODMAP Diet on Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Nutrition Therapy in Cancer Management: Dietetics in Action
Low Carbohydrate Diets and Type 2 Diabetes Management
Examining Nutritional Issues in Geriatric Populations
Dietary Management in Celiac Disease: Beyond Gluten-Free
Micronutrient Requirements in Pregnancy: A Dietetic Approach
Nutritional Interventions in Post-Bariatric Surgery Patients
Pediatric Nutrition: Addressing Failure to Thrive
Decoding the Nutritional Management of Eating Disorders
Balancing Nutrition and Palatability in Dysphagia Management
Managing Food Allergies: A Dietetics Perspective
Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition: Practical Issues and Challenges
Influence of Plant-Based Diets on Cardiovascular Health
Nutrition Support in Critically Ill Patients: The Role of Dietetics

Research Topics About Nutrition for the Treatment of Eating Disorders

Recovery Nutrition Strategies for Anorexia Nervosa
Implementing Mindful Eating in Bulimia Nervosa Treatment
Food Phobia and Its Nutritional Consequences in Eating Disorders
Orthorexia Nervosa: Where Health Consciousness Crosses the Line
Nutrient-Dense Diets in the Management of Eating Disorders
Balanced Diet Plans for Binge Eating Disorder Patients
Ketogenic Diets: A Possible Intervention for Eating Disorders?
Addressing the Nutritional Deficiencies in Anorexia Athletica
Understanding Refeeding Syndrome in Severe Anorexia Nervosa Cases
Carbohydrate-Centric Approach to Treat Bulimia Nervosa
Exploring the Nutritional Implications of Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
Macro and Micronutrients Management in Anorexia Nervosa Treatment
Assessing the Role of Dietary Fats in Bulimia Nervosa Recovery
Managing the Nutritional Challenges in Night Eating Syndrome
Food Variety and Its Importance in Eating Disorders Treatment
Bariatric Surgery for Severe Binge Eating Disorder: Nutritional Challenges
Influence of Veganism on the Progression of Eating Disorders
Postprandial Timing: Its Influence on Binge Eating Disorder
Nutritional Rehabilitation in Hospitalized Eating Disorder Patients

Sports Nutrition Research Paper Topics

Optimization of Protein Intake in Endurance Athletes
Micronutrients’ Importance for Athletic Performance
Carbohydrate Loading: A Tool for Marathon Runners
Ketogenic Diet and Its Effect on Athletic Performance
Hydration Strategies for Long-Distance Athletes
Nutritional Strategies to Enhance Recovery in High-Intensity Sports
Effects of Caffeine on Athletic Performance
Iron Requirements in Female Athletes: Meeting the Demand
Dietary Supplements and Performance in Elite Athletes
Bone Health and Nutrition in Weightlifting Athletes
Optimizing Pre-Game Nutrition for Competitive Athletes
Nutritional Implications of Aging on Athletic Performance
Creatine Supplementation in High-Intensity Training
Influence of Plant-Based Diets on Athletic Performance
Gut Health and Performance in Athletes: The Link
Nutrition Strategies for Managing Injuries in Athletes
Understanding Energy Availability in Endurance Sports
Probiotics and Their Potential Benefit for Athletes
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Their Relevance to Athletic Performance
Alcohol and Its Consequences on Sports Performance

Nutrition Research Topics About Veganism & Vegetarianism

B12 Deficiency in Vegan and Vegetarian Diets
Plant-Based Diets: Protein Quality and Quantity
Bone Health Among Vegans and Vegetarians
Exploring Iron Bioavailability in Plant-Based Diets
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Achieving Adequate Intake on a Vegan Diet
Veganism, Vegetarianism, and Cardiovascular Health
Effect of Plant-Based Diets on Blood Glucose Control
Zinc Absorption in Vegan and Vegetarian Diets
Evaluating Vegan and Vegetarian Diets for Athletes
Nutrient Density in Vegan and Vegetarian Diets
Challenges of Meeting Calcium Needs on a Vegan Diet
Plant-Based Diets and Gut Microbiota
Weight Management in Vegan and Vegetarian Lifestyles
Influence of Vegan Diet on Inflammatory Markers
Plant-Based Diets: Effect on Mental Health
Comparison of Antioxidant Intake: Vegans vs. Omnivores
Influence of Veganism on the Ageing Process
Plant-Based Diets and All-Cause Mortality
Perception of Hunger and Fullness in Vegans vs. Omnivores

Food Science Research Paper Topics

Microbial Safety of Fermented Foods
Structural Changes in Proteins During Cooking
Antioxidant Properties of Spices and Herbs
Functional Foods and Gut Health
Bioavailability of Nutrients From Different Cooking Methods
Flavor Chemistry and Perception in Food Development
Effects of Processing on Phytonutrient Content
Metabolic Pathways Involved in Fermentation
Novel Techniques in Food Preservation
Food Texture and Its Effect on Satiety
Influence of Food Structure on Nutrient Absorption
Bioactive Compounds in Functional Beverages
Chemical Changes in Food During Storage
Advancements in Food Packaging Technologies
Understanding Maillard Reaction in Different Food Products
Innovative Techniques in Food Fortification
Sustainable Food Processing Techniques
Potential Health Benefits of Probiotic Foods
Food Allergens: Detection and Quantification Methods
Sugar Substitutes: Health Benefits and Risks

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Nutrition Research Topics for College Students

The following are some of the best nutrition research paper topics for college students who want to learn more about the themes that directly affect them. And in case you need assistance with writing any of the following topics, you can order custom research papers and receive authentic, plagiarism-free content written by nutrition experts.

Stress eating a growing problem among college students
The cause and effects of Freshman 15
How healthy foods can help deal with mental health issues
Sleep and nutrition –how they relate to each other
How healthy eating impacts a college athlete’s performance
Is breakfast the most important meal of the day?
Why women are more likely to suffer from anemia
Preventing/curing hangovers with smarter food choices
The impact of social media on students’ dietary choices
What are superfoods, and can they be beneficial?
The rising popularity of the paleo diet
What makes fast food so addictive?
Most common eating disorders among college students
Diet and mood – how they’re intertwined
Can healthy foods improve cognition and brain power?

Interesting Nutrition Topics for Research Paper

If you’d prefer a bit more exciting topic that encourages debate and gets your readers immersed, take a look at the following nutrition research paper topic suggestions.

Overcoming unhealthy emotional relationship with food
The intricate relationship between smoking and weight
How sleep moderates ghrelin and leptin levels
Cannabinoids as nutritional supplements
Prevalence of diabetes among college students
How helpful are gummy vitamins?
Genetic predispositions for becoming obese
How parents’ eating habits impact children’s dietary choices
Preventing eating disorders in teens and young adults
How the body positivity movement can be harmful to young adults
In-depth review of US school lunches – what needs to change?
Preventing chronic diseases with better food choices
Is overhydration more dangerous than dehydration?
The impact of social media on women’s body image
Hormones and nutrition – how are they connected?

Research Topics in Nutrition and Dietetics

Analyzing diets and their impact on our health and fitness is always intriguing. Learn more about nutrition and dietetics with some of the following nutrition research topics:

Keto diet and risk considerations
Dietary changes during the COVID-19 pandemic
Nutrition vs. physical activity for healthy weight management
Methods for improving physical fitness while limiting calorie intake
In-depth analysis of yo-yo dieting
How going vegan impacts health
Dietary fats – the good and the bad
The dark side of the juice cleanse
The role of proteins in weight loss
How popular diet trends affect your health
Is intermittent fasting a good way to lose weight?
In-depth analysis of compulsive eating disorder Pica
Harmful trends that promote eating disorders
How to ensure proper nutrient intake on a plant-based diet
Are vegan foods always healthier?

Sports Nutrition Topics for Research

Student-athletes always want to know more about how food and nutrition impact their performance. The following topics can be just as useful to them as they are to med students.

Prevalence of eating disorders among female athletes
How plant-based diets impact athletes’ performance
How much protein you need for optimal muscle development
The role of BCAA’s in weightlifting performance among seniors
Is when you eat just as important as what you eat?
The impact of food choices on muscle recovery
Maintaining electrolyte balance during endurance training
The role of creatine in improving athletic performance
How to safely cut weight ahead of a competition
Effects of dietary fibers on carbohydrate uptake and absorption
What athletes need to know about BMI
Most effective supplements for bone and tendon health in combat athletes
How caffeine impacts athletic performance
In-depth analysis or Peri-Workout nutrition for strength athletes
Examining the effects of low-carb diet trends on athletic performance

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Nutrition is the organic process of nourishing or being nourished, including the processes by which an organism assimilates food and uses it for growth and maintenance.

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248 Popular Nutrition Research Topics That You Can Write About

A balanced diet can make you more productive in your tasks each day. However, how sure are you that the diet that you take is what is required? If you are doing a course in Nutrition and Dietetics, you need to do thorough research. There are certain steps you need to take before diving into the research work.

Characteristics Of A Good Nutritional Research Paper Topic

To prosper in your research, you need to find an ideal topic that won’t be too stressful for you.

Clarity of the topic: If you want to write a great nutritional research paper. The topic needs to be clear. This will make it easy to do the research and also others to understand what you are doing. It should be something common that people will be interested in, even taking part in the research or reading it. Well-defined research paper: The research paper topic needs to be well-phrased for successful research. The topic needs to be direct. So that even when someone tries to read it, they can conclude what the research should bring out. Simple language: If you want to prosper in your nutritional research. Just ensure that you use simple language that most people can understand. You are writing research so that people can benefit from it. There is no need to use too much complex language that won’t help anyone. Simple title: The title should follow the right procedure. It should be written perfectly. Also, ensure that your research aligns with your nutritional research topic. In the case that you want to research various used chemicals, try and stick to the topic as it is. The work: Ensure your research paperwork has an introduction, body, and conclusion. This is critical for any essay, research paper, or assignment

Nutrition Research Topics

Different farming practices lead to low or high production. The amount of food that you are consuming can have an impact on your overall weight. Here are some of the best nutrition research topics that you can start with.

Evaluate some of the most common abdominal fat and health risks.
The major causes of adolescent and childhood obesity or weight gain.
The high risks of obesity in children. Which ingredients should be avoided?
Evaluate the most common allergies and food sensitivities.
The importance of maintaining child nutrition and health.
Evaluate the digestive diseases and associated disorders
Evaluate the disordered eating habits in different age groups.
The best way to promote healthy eating and physical activity.
The best intervention that can be put in place is to reduce obesity.
Evaluate the best way to increase fruit and vegetable intake in different households.
How can diabetes be reduced in different age groups?
The best intervention ways to increase fruit and vegetable intake in the elderly.
The best way to provide good nutrition is in rural public schools.
Does coffee consumption help in stress reduction?

Informative Nutrition Topics to Write About

You need to provide high-quality work when submitting the research work to your professor. Here are some of the best informative nutrition topics to write about. You can even get some details in other scholarly articles.

The impact of cooperative extension in diabetes education and how to carry out self-care.
The common perceptions of students who eat organic food to health.
The relation between BMI and waist circumference in health indications.
The link between environment and dietary intake among rural teens.
The relationship between emotional brain formation and weight variation.
Factors that need to be considered when mothers are breastfeeding.
The common reasons for low fidelity to education programs in patients with gestational diabetes.
The best approaches to take when maintaining weight loss.
The eating habits disorders among athletes.
Evaluate the diet quality of university students.
Evaluate celiac disease in individuals.
The various perceptions about school feeding programs.
The impact of obesity on the health of individuals.
How can the media be used in providing nutrition education for individuals?

In-Depth Nutrition Research Paper Topics

If you want to write an amazing research paper, make use of the various resources. You can even get relevant information from documentaries, scholarly articles, books, pdf, and much more.

The relation between cigarette consumption and weight loss.
The perceptions of nutritional screening tools for the elderly.
The effectiveness of school welfare policies.
The parental perception of the nutritional status of children that have autism.
The major causes of stress eating among the youth.
The relation between healthy food and mental health issues.
The relation between sleep and nutrition.
How healthy eating impacts athletes’ performance.
The impact of breakfast on someone’s productivity during the day.
How social media impacts students’ dietary choices.
The benefits of superfoods to our bodies.
The rising popularity of the paleo diet.
The major causes of various food addictions
The relation between diet and someone’s moods.

Comprehensive Nutrition Research Questions

Are you looking for the best comprehensive nutrition research questions? You can start with these. They are also not that hard to understand.

Which are the genetics that causes obesity?
How do children’s eating disorders impact children’s dietary choices?
The best way to prevent chronic diseases is through better food culture choices?
Do you think overhydration is worse than dehydration? Give reasons
Which are the major impacts of social media on women’s body image?
Which is the relationship between hormones and nutrition?
What are the risk considerations of the keto diet?
Which are the best methods for improving physical fitness?
Are the dietary fats good or bad?
Which are the major roles of proteins in weight loss?
How do diet trends affect human health?
Do you think fasting can help in weight loss?
Which are the bad eating habits that cause disorders?
How to ensure proper nutrient intake in our day-to-day lives?

Interesting Nutrition Topics

Would you want some of the most interesting nutritional topics? Start with these! They are all based on common things that happen that you can easily relate to.

The role of creatine in improving athlete’s performance.
How a mother’s diet impacts the breast milk quality.
The major symptoms of malnutrition among kids.
The components that make GMO food.
The major effects of thermal processing on nutrients.
The factors that contribute to obesity among students.
The various dietary differences between different income level households.
The major foods that boost serotonin levels.
The connection between the immune system and diet.
The development of ketosis.
The component found incomplete proteins.
The different functions of minerals and vitamins.
The negative effects of too many vitamins.
The transformation of carbohydrates to energy.

Engaging Nutrition Topics For Presentation

Is your assignment meant to be made as a presentation? These are some of the best topics that you can use. They are all diverse and you will get all the required answers on books, pdfs, or any other credible source.

How does nutrition impact one’s connective tissue strength?
The major advantages and disadvantages of fats in our bodies.
How do lipids make a meal feel satisfying?
The difference between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids.
The interrelations between vitamins and other food components.
The influence of nutrition on hormones.
The consequences of zinc deficiency on our bodies.
The nutrients that help to improve your skin and hair.
The function of amino acids on our bodies.
Do you think you could survive on dietary supplements only?
Compare the effectiveness of gummy vitamins and pills.
The various ways that the body produces vitamin D from sunlight.
The reasons behind more women suffering from anemia than men.
What influences the presence of minerals in food?

Engaging Nutrition Essay Topics

Taking a balanced diet can help prevent you from getting these common nutritional diseases. Would you want to know more? Try any of these nutrition essay topics.

Is there a difference between the health benefits of white and brown bread?
The major benefits of cereals in our meals.
The best substitutes for white sugar.
The nutrients found in fresh and dried fruit.
The versatile uses of coconuts and benefits to our bodies.
Comparison between white and red meat.
What components are in sugar that make it a good preservative?
How does milk help in strong bone development in children?
The pasteurization process of milk.
Meat is a staple food in most cultures.
The chemical compounds found in margarine and butter.
The healthier alternatives to coffee.
Does taking a glass of wine daily have health benefits at all?
The major causes of hangovers in individuals.

Nutrition-Related Topics

What is the kind of food that you take? Are they beneficial to your body? These are some of the best nutrition-related topics that you can ever come across.

The impact of food safety in different institutions
Evaluation of nutrition in preschools for children.
The positive and negative effects of training and nutrition on football players.
The nursing habits of college-age students.
The major effects of caffeine in tea and coffee that you take.
The importance of eating a variety of foods.
The most energizing foods for a healthy body.
The major characteristics of multiple grain types.
The factors that impact mineral absorption.
The myth and facts behind the food pyramid.
The major foods that belong to the legumes food groups.
The advantages of taking various milk types.
The importance of glucose on our bodies. How often should we take glucose?
The major effects of selenium on health.

Nutrition Topics for Research

Research should be done systematically. First, you need to plan out how you are going to carry out the research. After you are done, be sure to start your research using different resources.

The health benefits of non-digestible compounds.
The major causes of lactose intolerance.
Why is there an increase in eating disorders among female athletes?
Which is the amount of protein that you need for muscle development?
Do you think the time you eat is equally as important as what you eat?
What is the importance of knowing your BMI?
Evaluate whether the best way to overcome unhealthy emotional relationships is with food.
How sleep regulates leptin levels in the body.
The major causes of the prevalence of diabetes among college students.
What are the major benefits of gummy vitamins?
The various beliefs are accustomed to whole grains.
The trends of breast cancer among women.
Evaluate the various environmental contaminants globally.
Why do you think people opt to be vegetarians?

Nutrition Presentation Topics

These are some of the best nutrition presentation topics that you can start with. They are simple, engaging, and straightforward. They will help you to make the best presentation you have ever made.

How can you consider a certain food as being energizing? What criteria are used?
The major characteristics of grains.
The origins of potatoes in the ecosystem.
The health benefits of avocados on our bodies.
How do some foods work as home remedies?
Which are the best ways to prepare scrambled eggs to ensure they provide full nutritional benefits.
The impact of globalization on our diet.
The different diet adaptations in different seasons.
The positive impact of breast milk on infants.
The dietary requirements for someone with HIV/AIDS.
The best food to take when you want to lose weight.
The major consequences of malnutrition.
The major causes of celiac diseases.
The advantages of organic food consumption.
Can alcohol be considered to be part of a healthy diet?

Nutrition Topics For College Students

Are you in college and wondering where you will get the best nutritional topics for your course using? All these topics are ideal for that.

The process of energy production from food nutrients in our bodies.
Make a comparison of the heterotrophs and autotrophs feeding behavior.
How is food converted to simpler substances in the body?
The duration in which animals can convert complex food substances into simpler ones.
How are proteins broken down in the body to be beneficial?
How blood carries nutrients in the body.
How high cholesterol levels can lead to body issues
The importance of diet supplements to busy people.
How does the body use electrolytes in the body?
How certain diets expose people to cancer.
Which is the best way to modify a diet to combat a certain disease?
The role of nutritional knowledge in making informed decisions.
The major causes of chronic diseases in human beings.
The negative effects of depression on nutrition.

Engaging Topics In Nutrition

Nutrition is quite advanced. Both harmful and beneficial foods should be taken in moderation. These are some of the best engaging topics in nutrition.

Which foods lubricate body joints?
The importance of fats in hormone production in the body.
Why do different fats have varying impacts on people’s bodies?
The major roles of unsaturated fats in the body.
The role of fats in preserving the health and brain development in humans
The negative effects of being a vegetarian for too long.
How does taking too much sugar cause diabetes?
The major causes of allergies on people with health conditions?
The importance of eating fiber-rich foods.
What amount of water do adults have in their bodies
The relation between eating and sleeping habits.
How taking sugary foods leads to loss of memory and inactivity?
How taking too many snacks is not healthy for the body?

Food and Nutrition Essay Topics

Are you planning to do an essay? These are some of the best food and nutrition essay topics that you will ever stumble upon. Always strive to eat a healthy diet at all times.

The long and short-term effects of food on our health.
How does water absorption occur in the body?
Does weather impact the amount of water we can take in a day?
The influence of weather on digestion.
The negative influence of fast food selling hotels on some lifestyle diseases.
The major determinants on whether an animal feeds on simple or complex inorganic compounds.
How are nutrients converted into minerals?
When should someone use a nutrient supplement?
The impact of alcohol intake by pregnant women.
Why do pregnant women crave different food?
The necessary nutrients after doing a hard workout.
The role of carbohydrates in an athlete’s body.
The importance of energy management on brain development
The importance of calcium to sportsmen and women.
How good nutrition maintains a great athletics record.

Research Topics in Nutrition and Dietetics

When doing your thesis, you need to do thorough research to ensure that your professor will give you top grades. If you are doing a dietetics course, these topics will serve the purpose.

How athletes can easily manage hunger cues.
The role of Vitamins to people that engage in sports.
The effect of chili on our bodies.
Which are the best ways to deal with obesity?
The disadvantages of obesity on children below 18 years.
The social and economic effects of poor nutrition.
How is healthy aging important for active aging?
How nutrition determines the body’s immunity.
The best way to make nutrition reforms & policies for the benefit of residents in different regions.
The role of proteins in sustainability and health.
The negative and positive impact of moods on eating well.
The role of nutrition in determining a body’s immunity.
Does ingredient dosage matter in food and nutrition?
The role of misinformation on unhealthy eating habits.
The myths related to plant-based proteins.

Ideal Nutrition Thesis Topics

When given a writing task, it can be hard to know where to start. However, teachers don’t quite require a lot from students. Just try to do what you can and give it your best shot.

The best eating habits that you can embrace.
The difference between red and white meat.
Evaluate the milk pasteurization process.
The advantages of milk consumption every morning.
The various beneficial components found in milk.
What are the best foods that the elderly should take?
How eating patterns affect the sleeping pattern.
The major causes of different eating patterns.
The effects of homemade food and intuitive eating habits.
The nutritional problems for pregnant women.
The relation between income and nutrition.
The major evidence-based nutrition.
Evaluate nutrition and blood pressure.
The advantages of organic food consumption

Health and Nutrition Topics

Our health plays a huge role in how effective we can be on different tasks. If you are fatigued or hungry, it can have adverse effects on your body.

How is nutritional profiling used?
The point of counting calories found in the body.
The major health benefits of vitamin water.
Why does the younger and older generation require different nutrition?
The major methods of projects that promote proper nutrition.
The relation between diet and one’s moods.
The major causes of teenagers developing an unhealthy attitude towards food.
The role of hunger and control in anorexia.
How malnutrition can cause an issue with an unborn child.
How poor eating habits lead to physical conditions.
The best way to maintain an active lifestyle for proper health.
The biological factors surrounding eating disorders.

Sports Nutrition Topics for Research

These are some best sports nutrition topics for research that you can start with. You can use them for your homework, assignment, thesis, or dissertation.

How different food varieties help athletes.
The role of carbohydrates in the mental development of athletes.
Explain the water cycle in an athlete’s diet.
Why do athletes need calcium?
How does trans-fat affect an athlete’s performance?
The importance of supplements in the diet.
How supplements and diets help in weight management.
What capacity of food should athletes eat before and after training?
The amount of water athletes should take before and after running.

Requiring Help With Your Nutrition Dissertation?

Are you looking for the most ideal writing service assistance? We provide nothing but the best. We have expert writers that will ensure you get custom work at an affordable price. All the planning is done online to ensure your work is delivered on time. Whether you are in university or college, these topics will help you.

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200 Unique Nutrition Research Topics for Students of All Levels

Nutrition research holds immense importance in advancing our understanding of the link between food and health. A well-chosen research topic plays a pivotal role in this process, as it fosters curiosity, drives critical thinking, and contributes to the body of knowledge in the field.

A compelling topic enables students to apply their knowledge, develop research skills, and contribute significantly to nutrition science, ultimately driving positive change in dietary practices and informing public health policies.

Table of Contents

Comprehensive Lists of Impressive Nutrition Research Topics

These lists allow researchers to explore up-and-coming areas like personalized nutrition, look into how food processing affects nutrients, and more. Something the writers working with professional Medical writing services will love to go with.

Interesting Nutrition and Exercise Research Topics

If you’re looking for something interesting that will keep your readers engaged and debating, check out this list of interesting research topics in nutrition:

An application of metabolomics to epidemiology can be found here.
Providing nutritional care and disease management with particular emphasis on enteral and parental nutrition
Nutrition as a means of preventing cancer
The challenges that food companies face in terms of regulatory standards and competitiveness
Studies on the therapeutic Role of diet in the treatment of chronic diseases
A review of nutritional factors based on physical activity levels, socioeconomic factors, and demographic characteristics
The importance of healthy eating habits to your physical and mental well-being and how they can help you
Sleep and height growth in children: Is there a causal relationship between the two?
Consumption of alcohol and tobacco may be linked to breast cancer and other types of cancer.
Work and breastfeeding are a mother’s responsibility.
Development of innovative solutions to meet the challenges of sustainable food resource development
The sustainability of food production in the world today
A healthy diet and high quality of life
What is the most effective way to adapt healthy habits to your lifestyle?
Healthy eating habits can prevent chronic diseases from occurring.
Maximizing the nutritional, sensory, functional, and safety characteristics of the food that we consume
Menopause age and cardiovascular risk during the aging process
The longitudinal relationship between cognitive and motor Performance and how nutrition can influence it to perform at its peak can be explored.
An accelerometer and a questionnaire were used to measure physical activity levels.
A study on the early determinants of whether children prefer protein from animals or protein from vegetables
Identifying and assessing the causes of early childhood food allergies in children
The problem of malnutrition in children
Infectious diseases and various other conditions can be treated with nutritional support.

Trendy Nutrition Topics to Research

Want to keep up with the trends while you writing a research paper ? Go with picking up a topic from this list of research topics about nutrition.

An analysis of the determinants and states of health based on a typology
After the age of 50, several factors contribute to frailty
Health effects of outdoor air pollution on humans: a study of associations
Oxidative stress plays an imperative role in the function of biological markers
Cleaning and disinfecting products in the workplace can result in occupational exposure
Depending on your social group, how often you use food, and how it affects your general eating habits
Role of a healthy diet in a brilliant mental health
Treating infertility through medical means
Young adults using electronic cigarettes and the factors associated with their use are discussed in this article
The environments in which we live have an effect on our stress levels in everyday life
Identifying nutritional exposures and assessing their impact
Biobanking of nutritional exposures; estimation of nutritional exposures
Nutritional markers with a high level of stability
A revolutionary method of analyzing nutritional problems based on innovative statistical methods and big data
How can eating well improve our lives?
Researching public health and nutrition issues using experimental and epidemiological approaches
An assessment of the impact of public health nutrition strategies can be done using theoretical systems
Public health nutritional strategies that may have a positive impact on public health
Public health epidemiology and evaluation are critical aspects of public health
There are several mechanisms involved in the relationship between nutrition and health
Nutrition and health are interconnected through the mechanism of nutrient absorption
A novel approach to determining dietary habits based on innovative determinants
Nutrient exposures and behaviors in emerging and underexplored populations

New Research Topics in Nutrition

This list of new topics will certainly give you an edge to impress your professor. Here you go with the list.

Eating disorders are caused by a variety of factors
Families play a critical role in the treatment of eating disorders
Role of the family as the reason for eating disorders
Eating disorders associated with sociocultural values
Eating disorders caused by difficulties with physical health and fatigue
Several psychological factors influence eating disorders
An overview of the methodology for measuring eating disorders with measuring instruments.
A brief description of anorexia nervosa and its characteristics.
An overview of the definitions and characteristics of eating disorders.
Eating disorders being reported by the patient
The results of a survey conducted between three different colleges concerning eating disorders
A study of food disorders and their relation to the environment is presented below
The definition and characteristics of bulimia can be found in the following document

Fitness and Nutrition Research Topics

Pick a topic from this list to get a chance to research the world of fitness and nutrition. Here you go with the list:

Overview of the History of Fitness and Nutrition
After childbirth, what Role does fitness play in a woman’s life?
Relationships between the fitness industry and the nutritional industry
The Role of Fitness in the Health of the Public as a Whole
What is the ideal number of fitness centers per 100 square kilometers, and where should they be located?
How can nutrition influence hormones in college students and prevent unhealthy eating habits?
Where to get guidance regarding fitness and precision nutrition?
An overview of the technological developments occurring in the fitness industry as well as their relation to nutrition
Weightlifters’ relationships with their bodies and their interaction with each other
The practice of fitness is of interest to women: The rising trend of women’s gyms
Taking part in fitness activities and meeting other people: A great source to socialize and release mental pressure
Chronic diseases in college students accumulated with disordered eating habits
Exercise as a means of combating stress and anxiety
What are the reasons for practicing fitness exercises?
The importance of exercise and proper nutrition in slowing down premature aging
Pregnant women can benefit from fitness and nutrition during their pregnancy
Number of exercises that can be used to combat metabolic diseases
Exercises that are beneficial to the health of the lungs
Heart disease prevention exercises that you can do at home
An exercise program that will help you overcome physical inactivity and paralysis

Nutrition Research Topics Related to Sports

Student-athletes are always curious to learn how what they eat affects their Performance. These topics can be just as helpful to them as they are to medical students. Here’s your chance to write excellent nutritional research articles.

Nutritional requirements for the provision of micronutrients and nutrients to the athlete of the body
Essential polyunsaturated fatty acids for sportsmen
Trans fatty acids and conjugated fatty acids for sportsmen
Estimation of daily energy expenditure by athletes
Estimation of the basal metabolic rate
Calculation of the recommended daily energy intake
Nutritional Needs of the General Population Compared to Athletes
Evolution of carbohydrate recommendations
Dietary Supplements to enhance athletic Performance
The Role of Glycogen in Performance
Interaction and synergy of metabolic pathways
Energy and carbohydrates metabolism
Comparison of sporting disciplines in terms of diet
Consumption of food products intended for athletes
Consumption of food supplements
A healthy controlled diet and health benefits of sports nutrition
Dietary supplements to improve circulation and health benefits
Muscular development and fat mass loss
Proteins, amino acids, and derivatives: Athletic support requirements
Dietary supplements used by Athletes and their risks
An athlete’s fight against fatigue.
Athletes need vitamins
Risks of post-exercise products

Food and Nutrition Research Topics

Understanding how different foods affect your health is a great reason to watch what you eat. The following topics can help you narrow your focus on the important aspects of food and nutrition that everyone should know about.

The foods that contribute to negative thinking
Chemical analysis of foods leads to negative thinking and fatigue.
An economic analysis of food systems
Health benefits of organic food vs. staple food
The food security situation in the northern Saharan region
An analysis of strategies that can be used to build resilience to food insecurity
A food security perspective on the vegetable sector
Evaluation of the food security situation in the country
Insufficient nutrition among children is a significant problem.
Urban Malnutrition and its Determinants in the developing world
How public stock of food products Significantly impacts public health and safety.
Households vulnerable to successive food shocks show a high level of resilience.
Gardening for market income and ensuring the security of food and nutrition
The profile and integrated management of severe acute malnutrition at the San Jose Hospital: a case study
Unique health benefits of food additives for college students
Nutritional contributions of keto diets
Role of administrative authorities to assure food safety
The nutritional and dietary behaviors of specific populations, as well as patients with specific conditions
The determinants of eating innovative behavior
Nutrition and health are interconnected through the mechanism of nutrient absorption.

Health and Nutrition Research Topics

We feel what we eat impacts our daily health and happiness. Some people want to change their diet but don’t know where to begin or how to avoid eating disorders. This list of hot topics will let you explore that.

In terms of climate change and food security, what is the extent of the problem?
Monitoring the nutritional status of the population utilizing various methods
The promotion of nutrition research in the human population
Importance of food safety in society
The process of training teachers, trainers, and relay personnel.
Training in the fields of medicine and paramedicine.
Public health measures and actions that have been taken to improve public health
Media and personality involvement in food and health issues at the level of artistic, cultural, and sports media and personalities
How poor eating habits lead to food addiction and too many vitamins
Establishing a system for evaluating the food provided to hospital patients
An overview of nutrition-related illnesses and their diagnosis and treatment
Initiatives aimed at educating patients on the importance of diet and health
Tool to assess nutritional status as part of a clinical assessment
How unbalanced diets and poor eating habits lead to poor nutrition
Different food groups contribute to the immune system as healthier alternatives to poor feeding habits.
Different food groups ensure healthy eating effects and prevent eating disorders.
Ensure food safety with dietary guidelines with the help of food science.

Easy Nutrition Research Topics

If you want to avoid the complexities of research by choosing a simple topic, go with this list. Still, if you need help choosing a topic or writing a research paper, let our writers know. Here’s the list.

Global food systems: A research paper on the subject
The women’s perspective on breastfeeding and returning to work after maternity leave
The effects of a balanced diet on the weight gain of pregnant women
Health benefits of proper nutrition in women
Consultation about diet during pregnancy and the delivery of twins.
The importance of diet monitoring during pregnancy for women with gestational diabetes
Managing diabetes in pregnant women and following up with them after delivery
The impact of nutrition and micro-nutrition on the development of autoimmune diseases
Analyzing the Effectiveness of artificial nutrition prescription practices in Adults
The impact of a vegetarian diet on the development of a child
Health benefits of nutrition education and promoting healthy food choices
A guide for vegetarian pregnant women on how to take care of themselves
The relationship between micronutrients and immunity
Proper nutrition to overcome food additions and lose weight with homemade food
The effect of lifestyle and dietary measures on patients with heart failure
An examination of the relationship between oral health and nutrition in a population
A study on the marketing of fruits and vegetables and healthy eating: characterization of the marketing channels involved
How food science contributes to endorsing and promoting proper nutrition with the help of healthy organic foods
A review of the association between orthostatic hypertension and geriatric syndromes
The self-esteem of patients with liver transplants in terms of their physical appearance
A report on the state of undernutrition in several hospitals on the island of Reunion
Non-drug therapies in the management of pain in women: an overview of their use
Insomnia management is based on a multidisciplinary approach.
The Role of Communication in preventive actions in Pharmacies

For centuries, people have been fascinated with understanding how our bodies work and respond. That’s why there are so many interesting research topics on nutrition and nursing for today’s students to pick from. Speaking of which, we have put together 200 of the best nutrition topics for your research paper in this exciting blog post.

What are the 7 Areas of Nutrition?

The seven areas of nutrition are:

Macronutrients
Micronutrients
Dietary Guidelines
Nutritional assessment

What are five common nutritional concerns?

Five common nutritional concerns are:

Inadequate Nutrient Intake
Excessive Calorie Consumption
Nutrient Deficiencies
Unhealthy Eating Patterns
Food Allergies or intolerances.

What are the three popular food-related topics for research?

Three popular food-related topics for research are:

Sustainable Food Systems
The Impact of Dietary Choices on Health and Disease Prevention
The Development of Innovative Food Technologies to Address Food Security and Safety.

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Nutrition Research Topics: Top 185+ Ideas

Nutrition is a branch of science that studies the impact of different foods and drinks on our bodies and their association with diseases, health, and our diet. It examines how nutrients in food supply energy and the physiological and biochemical processes involved in nutrient absorption. We all comprehend the role nutrients play in our bodies and immune systems. It significantly decreases the risk of diseases and makes us more active and productive throughout our lives.

When you have to write about nutritional research topics, the information should be as accurate as possible. It implies that students must keep tabs on all the essential topics in nutrition, as well as topics that include integrated health and nutrition topics. Additionally, nutrition could be more complex than it might sound. However, if one knows the art of narrowing down some essential topics in food, the process can be much more straightforward for them. With our list of exciting nutrition topics for research papers, anyone can draft an excellent research paper. So, continue reading this blog that constitutes some brilliant research topics about nutrition.

Table of Contents

Choosing an Appropriate Nutrition Research Topic

We all understand the importance of the central topic for the entire research paper. Nutrition is a significantly broad field of study that entails topics regarding health education, health promotion, and human nutrition. Nutrients also include a branch of biochemistry, physical science, physiology, human anatomy, etc. Thus, selecting a research topic on your own is an uphill task because of these extensive research fields. However, if you exercise a few secret tips to choose your nutrient topics to research, the whole process will be more straightforward.

When choosing a nutrition research topic, consider the following:

Relevance: Is the topic of interest to you relevant to current nutritional issues?
Importance: Does the topic address a vital health or nutritional problem?
Feasibility: Can the research be realistically completed with available resources and within the time frame?
Uniqueness: Is the topic original, and has it yet to be extensively studied?
Audience: Who is the intended audience for your research, and what is their level of interest in the topic?

185+ Nutrition Research Topics

Here is a list of some essential nutrition research topics you can use for your research. You can also refer to some nutrition capstone ideas if you need help deciding what topic to choose in your research. Nevertheless, here is a list of the best nutrition research topics you can use to start your research.

Nutritional Research Topics to Start Your Research

Understanding nutrition science is crucial for supporting one’s own health and survival. The research topics listed below help you articulate the significance of nutrition .

Abdominal Fat and Health Risks (Abdominal Obesity)
An overview of the trends and analysis of nutrients in foods
Adolescence (including older children and teens)
Adolescent and Childhood Obesity
Aging (including older Americans)
Blood Cholesterol Levels
Biological and psychological aspects of eating disorders
Body Mass Index (BMI): an overview
Breast cancer and Smoking
Bulimia: clinical features and long-term outcomes
Breastfeeding an Infant with a Cow’s Milk Allergy
Is becoming a vegan beneficial or harmful to society?
influence of childhood obesity on the health and sanity of an individual
Malnutrition’s effects on the immune system
The impact of undernourishment on the mother and infant
How a person’s behavior connects to their eating habits
variations in how vitamins and minerals affect a person’s health.
Nutritional and dietary factors that affect cardiac metabolism.

Research Topics on Essential Nutrients

There are three categories of nutrients named as- macro-nutrients, micro-nutrients, and water. An equal balance of these nutrients is essential for one’s health and survival. Below you will find some brilliant nutrition topics for research. You can explore each of the following topics to fully grasp and unravel your point of view regarding your selected topic.

Exploring nutrition requirements for vulnerable groups
Nutrition’s effect on how the body reacts to weight training
The impact of ketogenic diets on cognitive and behavioral function
Influence of amino acids on the human body
Influence of early nutrients on man
Effects of high dietary carbohydrates on fish nutrition
Holick’s rule and vitamin D from sunlight
Micro-nutrients for hair and nails
Clinical effectiveness of standard components in oral hair growth supplements
Nutrition and immunity
The biological and functional consequences of zinc deficiency
Exploring why anemia is still a significant health issue among women
Different roles and biosynthesis of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids
Exploring the adverse health effects of selenium on human health
Diabetic complications and the imperativeness of glucose control for the human body
Water as an essential nutrient: the physiological foundation of hydration
Choline is an essential nutrient for humans.
Understanding heavy metals as a critical nutrient for plants

Sports Nutrition Research Topics to Explore

Athletes are always curious to know more about the impact of nutrients on their performance. Whether you are a professional athlete or someone who works out regularly, an ideal diet filled with nutrients is essential. You require a suitable demand to replenish the energy the body drains while practicing. Consider exploring the following nutrition research topics about sports nutrition for your upcoming research paper:

Eating problems are common among female athletes.
Sports nutrition for the health and performance of athletes
The significance of diversity in a sportsperson’s diet
The effect of a plant-based diet on athletic performance
The ideal amount of protein to consume for muscular growth
The contribution of BCAAs to senior weightlifting performance
The consumption of dietary supplements by athletes
Muscle-enhancing behaviors among young athletes
Plant-based protein vs. animal-based protein: an overview
How do nutritional choices affect muscle recovery?
Preserving electrolyte equilibrium throughout endurance training
Creatine’s contribution to enhancing athletic performance
Analyzing the contributions of protein and carbohydrates to athletes’ mental health
Specialized diets that promote endurance and stamina
A diet that beats fatigue replenishes energy and restores depleted stamina
A thorough examination of post-workout nutrition for strength athletes
Sports nutrition and performance: a detailed analysis
The nutritional adequacy of plant-based diets
Investigating how low-carb diet trends affect athletes’ performance

Research Topics in Nutrition Education

In simple terms, nutrition education is a sequential instructional program that educates an individual or group of individuals about the science of nutrients. Below are some exciting nutrition topics about education that will be useful for your research.

Vegan and vegetarian diets
How can nutrition benefit women’s and kids’ immune systems?
Risk management mechanisms for food safety
Preventing childhood obesity
How water supports nutrient circulation and digestion
The role of diets in illnesses like HIV/AIDS that already exist
The contribution of nutrition to weight management
The justification for those with chronic diseases needing particular dietary guidelines
Dietary supplements: legend or reality?
The safety of herbal supplements as dietary aids
Reducing malnutrition by a balanced diet.
Consumer behavior and nutrition education: a detailed analysis
The effects of bad eating habits are elements that affect food safety.
How can the world combat the obesity pandemic that is sweeping the globe?
Children’s nutritional needs
The role of nutrition in managing and gaining weight

Students can also correlate biology research topics from that with nutrition topics. These two subjects are associated with one another, which creates an essential option for students who need clarification on their topic.

Food and Nutrition Topics for Research Papers

Food and nutrition have an inextricable link that no one can break. All of us know a specific food item that contains lots of nutrients. Thus, we considered compiling a list of research topics based on food and nutrients. The following are some of the most promising food and nutrition research topics for students who want to dig deeper into this aspect.

Why are sugars the main contributors to many health complications?
Consumption of organic food for a healthy lifestyle
The influence of intestinal health on dietary guidelines
Exploring snacking habits for a healthy life
Economical substitutes for wholesome organic meals
effects of national food policy.
The significance of fatty foods for the younger generation
How chronic diseases impact nutritional health
The function of macro- and micronutrients in maintaining general health
The importance of carbohydrates in the human body
Meat consumption and the risk of incident dementia
Myths and facts about the food pyramid
Relationship between food poisoning and food hygiene
Chronic illnesses and wholesome food options
The impact of protein on bone health
Analyzing the effects of chocolate on human health
Research the health advantages of indigestible substances.

Since nutritional food and substances play a significant part in a child’s development and growth, you can also consider reading our child development research topics . You can read the entire article and correlate both topics to develop a unique nutrition topic for a research paper.

Research Topics About Nutrition And Dietetics

Exploring more and more about food diets and their role in the growth and development of our bodies is always fascinating. If you are the one looking for research topics on nutrition and dietetics, then we have some of the best topics for you, all lined up in the below-given list:

Exploring the risk factors associated with the ketogenic diet
Dietary intake among US adults: 1999–2022.
Is gluten as harmful to humans as the media portrays?
A research analysis of herbal medicine for sports
A thorough examination of yo-yo dieting
Why should you avoid empty calories, and what are they?
What impact has globalization had on our diet?
Cholesterol-lowering effects of dietary fiber: a detailed analysis
Nutritional modifications during the COVID-19 pandemic
The justifications behind people’s dietary restrictions
Omega 3 fatty acids
Essential components of a nutritious diet?
Eating habits versus exercise for good weight management
Describe the advantages of breastfeeding for babies.
Techniques for enhancing physical fitness while consuming fewer calories
Herbal supplementation in the body: a detailed study
Nutritional control of aging
The role of nutrition in gerontology

Clinical Nutrition Topics for Research

Dear readers, these below given clinical nutrition topics for research might serve as your research paper help in your research. Explore each topic in the list below and select the topic that suits best your interest:

Introduction to clinical nutrition and dietetics
Recent advances in clinical nutrients
COVID-19 and nutrition
Dieticians’ Implicit Association Test for Fat People and Thin People to Assess Obesity Bias
Drug and enzyme interactions in pharmacology
Digestive system disorders
An analysis of body composition measurements for health evaluation
Review of Health Literacy and Nutrition Education’s Relationship
Heart health and cardiovascular disorders
Food- and nutrition-related myths and misunderstandings
How micro-nutrients affect general health
How macro-nutrients affect public health
The impact of both passive and active lifestyles on overall health
Skeletal Muscle Mass Ratio as a Measure of Sarcopenia in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
A dietician’s perceived professionalism is unaffected by their appearance or white coat: a critical overview
Body Composition Measured by Three Different Techniques Is Unaffected by a Small Food or Fluid Load

Health and Nutrition Research Paper Topics

Health and clinical research topics are extremely popular among students throughout the world. The experts at Edumagnate.com have cautiously gathered every topic in this below-provided list. If you are interested in studying more about this subject, we are sure these interesting nutrition topics for research papers would help you.

The importance of healthy diets for treating mental health disorders
Obesity prevention via smart food policies
The pharmacological interaction between enzymes and medicines
The importance of micro- and macro-nutrients in general health
The most effective supplements for combat athletes’ bone and ligament health
Investigate the health advantages of non-digestible substances.
The significance of food for treating cognitive and brain power
Binge eating in children and adolescents
Is Weight Watchers a worthwhile program?
Investigate the factors that contribute to weight gain in college students.
How did the Paleo diet gain popularity?
The effects of malnutrition.
What is the yo-yo effect, and how does it function?
Should we trust the “breakfast myth”?
What is the cause of celiac disease?
Why are Northern Europeans less likely than those from the Global South to be lactose intolerant?
Chronic illnesses and good eating habits
Why is sugar the leading cause of a wide range of health problems?
Cost-effective alternatives to nutritious organic foods.
The importance of diet in determining the body’s immunity
The impact of chronic conditions on nutritional health
The relevance of digestive health in dietary policy formulation

Research Topics in Nutrition Science

Depending on your interest, nutrition science can be both challenging and interesting. The central objective of nutrition science is to gather evidence that showcases how numerous eating behaviors impact human health. It entails studying different elements of food on chemical, biological, and physical levels. You can also consider reading our previous blogs on chemistry research topics and tweaking them according to your requirements. Nevertheless, let’s first dive deeper into the list of these enticing research topics in nutrition science.

Exploring the science behind the dietary guidelines for female
Filling the bridge between infantile brain development and food intake
Is every calorie created equally?
Microbiology’s function in food science
A detailed study on the d ietary supplements
Go over the advantages and disadvantages of enriched commercial bread.
Examine the procedure for obtaining plant oil.
Do nutrients vanish when something is heated up?
Are GM crops harmful?
Describe the distinction between fortifying and enriching.
How does food science help older people consume better food?
How are enzymes used in the food industry?
What elements affect someone’s capacity to adhere to a certain diet?
How is space food produced?
National food policy: a detailed analysis
The preventive features of individualized nutrition
What effects does food have on your immune system?
Describe the technologies that are employed to guarantee food safety.
What is the influence of dietary factors on getting rid of cancer?
A critical review of the history and future of food irradiation

Nutritional Research Topics for Eating Disorders

Consider reading about these nutrition research topics on eating disorders, and we’re sure you’ll like it:

What is binge eating?
Cardiovascular symptoms affect the patterns of habitual coffee consumption.
Analyze the harmful stereotypes surrounding eating disorders.
Causes of disordered eating habits
Exploring childhood obesity in the 21st century
Studies Linking Processed Meat, Unprocessed Red Meat, Poultry, or Fish Consumption to Cardiovascular Disease Incidence
Why are female athletes at high risk for eating disorders?
A critical analysis of food insecurity in the Bronx
Risk factors associated with childhood obesity
How can the government tackle obesity cases in rural areas?
What are the various forms of treatment for eating disorders?
Ways to prevent eating disorders in preteens
Discuss the relationship between Smoking and weight.
Understanding anorexia nervosa as an eating disorder
Etiology of eating disorders
The role of hunger in anorexia
How do eating disorders affect one’s mental health?
Exploring the impact of food insecurity among the youth

The Bottom Line

The nutrition research topics will help you systematically craft your entire research paper. You can choose any of the aforementioned topics and provide a unique angle that has never been explored. Before writing a research paper , narrow down a few relevant topics and research each. When you’ve researched those topics, you’ll have an idea of what topic you want to study, and once you’ve outlined your key points, you can move on to the writing process. Thus, consider reading the entire article so you don’t miss any essential topics.

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130 Nutrition Research Topics For Exceptional Paper

When it comes to the world of nutrition, navigating it should be as precise as possible, and that means keeping tabs on current nutrition topics and hot nutrition topics, as well as integrated health and nutrition topics. For anyone willing to seek homework help for their nutrition topic needs, there are cheap, trusted quality experts you can get on board to help you. These experts can be trusted to provide quality work, and they can help you meet up with whatever deadline has been set for you to work on your research paper topics for nutrition class. The best part is that these professional services are offered to university students at affordable rates. We understand how tasking it can be for students to juggle their entire college life while trying to meet social expectations and end up with top grades, so we’ve put together some nutrition hot topics and popular nutrition topics for college students and anyone willing to make further research into these topics. Whether you’re looking for some nutrition topics for presentation, below are some areas and topics that constitute the latest research topics in nutrition. If you’ve already chosen a topic, but have difficulties with paper writing, then check out our college paper writing services .

Nutrition Topics for Research

The science of nutrition is important in understanding and contributing to one’s own healthy lifestyle. Below are some research topics you can explore to fully grasp and express the importance of nutrition and nutritional health in growth and development.

Differences in the responses of different people to certain foods.
How responses to diet can vary from person to person.
How proper nutrition supports healthy growth and development.
The influence of certain diets on reproductive health.
How proper nutrition helps in the management and promotion of health.
The impact of a controlled healthy diet on diabetes.
How certain foods precipitate an individual’s pre-existing medical condition.
The psychology and biological factors surrounding eating disorders.
How healthy diets and an active lifestyle help to maintain health.
Effects of malnutrition on the immune system.
How malnutrition affects mother and child.
How poor eating habits lead to physical ailments and conditions.
How behavior relates to a person’s nutritional habits.
Differences in the contribution of minerals and vitamins to a person’s health.
Diets and nutritional influencers of cardio metabolism.

Sports Nutrition Topics

Whether it’s light exercise or athletics, the right diet is needed in order for one to be able to keep up with the demands of the body to replenish the energy that has been lost. When exploring sports nutrition, the following topics will prove useful to you in your research. Carefully examine each research topic.

Animal-based and plant-based protein foods.
The place of variety in an athlete’s diet.
How fruits and vegetables help in managing energy for sporting activities.
The roles played by protein and carbohydrates in the healthy mental development of athletes.
The cycle of water in an athlete’s diet.
Special diets that help build stamina and endurance.
Diets that help replenish energy and depleted stamina.
How diets and supplements interact in the maintenance of weight.
The place of supplements in diets.
How much is too much food before and after training?
Overdependence on exclusive diets.
How nutrition helps in the development of target muscles and organs.
Calcium: a highly underrated integral portion of an athlete’s diet.
How saturated and trans fat affects the performance of an athlete.
The role of diets and supplements in the prevention and healing of injuries.

Nutrition Education Topics

When it comes to educating other people on how their nutritional choices affect their overall health, one will see that they need a hand. Not to worry, as the following topics will help point you in the right direction in your research.

Vegetarian vegan diets
Maintaining a healthy diet in the midst of a pandemic.
How water aids digestion and circulation of nutrients.
The place of diets in preexisting conditions like HIV/ AIDS.
Rationale behind the specialized dietary requirements for people with chronic illnesses.
Dietary supplements: mythical or factual.
The safety of herbal remedies as nutritional supplements.
Mitigating malnutrition with a healthy diet.
Consequences of poor feeding habits.
How nutrition enhances the immune system of women and children.
Factors that contribute to food safety.
Dietary requirements for children.
Nutritional contribution to weight gain and management.

Food and Nutrition Essay Topics

Understanding how different types of food interplay to affect one’s health is more than enough reason to maintain a healthy diet. The following food and nutrition essay topics will help hone your focus on the important aspects of food and nutrition that everyone needs to know about.

Organic foods.
How good nutrition influences the productivity of physical activity.
How genetics contribute to a person’s susceptibility to obesity.
How a healthy diet helps in the repair of cardiovascular impairments.
The impacts of psychological, biological, and nutritional elements on a person’s eating habits.
The impacts of psychology on a person’s feeding habits.
How unhealthy eating habits have progressed among teenage children to become trendy.
Stimulants: dependency, overdependence, and healthy methods of getting weaned off of them.
Diets that help facilitate weight loss in patients with obesity.
Brain foods: foods that boost mental and cognitive health.
The impact of a healthy, wholesome diet on the mental health of a person.
Maintaining a healthy diet even in the face of economic hardship.
Food security and availability, and how they propagate malnutrition.
How unbalanced diets can result in psychotic and psychological disorders.
The place of calories in nutrition.

Sports Nutrition Topics for Research

For further research into the impact of food choices on sports, the topics below would make great research topics. Having a clear focus will aid in this aspect of your research, and the topics below are ideal for new discoveries and techniques in promoting good nutrition.

Metabolism of carbohydrates
Special energy requirements of athletes
Managing or maintaining body weight
Tailoring food and exercise for specific sports
Food supplements
Proper hydration
Steroids and their impact on sports
The sports nutrition principles
Foods to stay away from
Foods that boost sports performance
The best kind of foods for different athletes
Can athletes be vegans?
Effects of energy drinks on athletes
The place of food in recovery
How does food affect the way we sleep?

Nutrition Research Paper Topics

Without doing too much, this list of topics will help refine your research skills and help you discover uncharted territories in nutrition, food, and health.

Balanced diet
Vitamins: what really are they?
The relationship between food and hormones
Are food additives safe?
Different kinds of eating disorders
Fighting eating disorders
The best kinds of foods to maintain weight
Foods to help you gain weight
Foods that help you lose weight
Curbing food addictions
Is being vegan worth it?
Balanced diets for vegans
The prevalence of malnutrition
Foods appropriate for children
Foods children need to avoid

Interesting Nutrition Topics for Research Paper

Teaching children about nutrition and nutritional health benefits.
How proteins help produce energy.
Synthesis of proteins and carbohydrates.
The unhealthy supplementation of healthy proteins and carbohydrates in diets today.
Managing malnutrition as a sustainable development goal.
Zero hunger: the quest to ensure food security and mother and infant nutrition.
Commercialization of foods rich in antioxidants: a governmental strategy to boost health.
The role of nutrition and heredity in allergies.
Exclusive breastfeeding for infants.
Viability of the supplementation of colostrum found in breastmilk.
Breastmilk: an infant’s first supply of antioxidants.
How folate helps prevent spina bifida before conception.
Myths surrounding nutrition in pregnancy.
What cravings say about nutrient deficiency.

Research Topics In Nutrition and Dietetics

Health risks associated with abdominal obesity.
Childhood obesity: causative factors and remedial actions.
The role of dieting in gerontology.
Free radicals: are they good or bad?
The underrated potentials of vitamin c.
Proper nutritional habits in toddlers and young children.
Nutritional requirements in adolescents and teenagers.
How nutritional habits and requirements vary across genders.
Duets to help control and eliminate abdominal fat.
Alcohol, alcohol dependency, and its effect on a person’s nutrition.
Oils that help in the development of mental abilities.
Omega 3 Fatty acids.
Keto diets: should you be so dependent on them?
The place of supplementation in nutrition.

Research Topics In Clinical Nutrition

How chronic illnesses affect nutritional health.
Chronic diseases and healthy food choices.
Ideal sources of calcium.
Good and bad cholesterol.
Pocket-friendly alternatives to healthy organic foods.
Eating disorders.
Pharmacological interaction between enzymes and drugs.
Disorders of the digestive system.
Cardiovascular diseases and heart health.
Fiber, fish, and folic acids: three important “F’s” to adhere to during pregnancy.
Myths and misconceptions about food and nutrition.
The role of micronutrients in overall health.
The role of macronutrients in overall health.
Physical activity vs sedentary lifestyle: effects of both on general health.

Food is a constant part of the life of every living thing, so any knowledge that can be gotten on the topic is valuable. The place and role of knowledge on food and nutrition cannot be overemphasized. Having the right knowledge of the different kinds and classes of foods as well as their uses will go a long way to ensuring their proper use. More so, a healthy population is one of the greatest assets of any nation. This can be achieved through proper nutrition and detailed research. No person, group, or economy can grow without having substantial knowledge of food, hence the need to know more about this staple. You can find some topic inspiration for your essay or assignment. Be sure to research thoroughly to determine if you have enough information to work with before starting.

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50 Best Nutrition Research Topics to Write About

One of the first hurdles that students face when conducting a research project is coming up with a list of topics in nutrition that are original, interesting, and manageable. This list of 50 nutrition paper topics was compiled by our writing experts and is perfect for a variety of assignment types.

Nutrition Research Topics for Junior High School

This collection of nutrition essay topics is great for short junior high school projects. They challenge students to conduct research without being too much to handle:

Are our junior high and high school students getting enough protein from school cafeteria meals?
How much does poor nutrition lead to high obesity levels for children from lower-income families?
How important are vitamins to the proper development of children aged 12 and younger?
What are some of the habits of healthy eating that junior high schools need to develop to pave the way for nutrition improvement?
What is the nutritional value of foods that are considered to be traditional in the United States?

Current Topics in Nutrition for High School

Five current nutrition topics ideal for students in high school taking health courses or looking to pursue a career in nutrition:

Why is it important for people to know their individual health histories to eat healthily?
Does a current shift in healthy eating lead to long-term positive effects?
If you were allowed to create your healthy nutrition program, what would it include?
Do students consume the appropriate level of water per day or are they falling below healthy levels?
Are child obesity rates higher in the U.S. than in other parts of the world?

Nutrition Topics for Research at the College Level

These nutrition research topics for college students pursuing a post-graduate career in health and nutrition:

Does healthy eating affect your mood in positive ways or do you feel the same?
Considering all the healthy options that exist in first-world countries, why don’t people adopt a healthy lifestyle?
In what ways does a parent’s nutritional lifestyle affect the way his or her kid(s) lifestyle?
Do you think it is possible to transition from a meat-protein-based diet to a vegan-protein-based one?
How often should college students indulge in treats as a form of reward for hard work?

Hot Topics in Nutrition and Healthy Dieting

Five nutrition hot topics that will inspire you to conduct a great research project on healthy dieting and living through proper nutrition:

How many meals should a person eat per day to achieve optimal health?
What evidence exists to back-up claims that healthy eating affects overall wellness in adults?
How does healthy eating impact a professional athlete’s ability to perform in his or her profession?
How does the U.S. nutritional diet compare to that of other first-world countries?
Is it really important for people to hydrate with water versus sports drinks?

Nutrition Topics to Write About

Need nutrition topics for presentation? We’ve got you covered with these 5 great ideas that are sure to impress any audience:

Nutrition versus exercise: which strategy is better for optimum health?
How does a person increase the level of exercise when they are on a diet and getting fewer calories?
In a self-evaluation, do you feel you meet the standards of a healthy nutritional lifestyle?
How important is nutrient to overall wellness in adults over 40 years old?
Do you feel you have the option to select healthy or unhealthy foods each day?

Highly Controversial Topics in Nutrition

The following controversial nutrition topics can be used at both the high school and college levels and can be applied for short or long writing projects:

How dangerous are diets that are high in sugar compared to other diets that are low in sugar content?
Are infants at greater risk of becoming obese when consuming certain brands of infant formulas?
What is the biggest reason that fast food restaurants do not add healthier meal options for patrons?
How dangerous is binge eating and how does it lead to long-term health problems?
Is coffee bad for your health?

Excellent Sports Nutrition Topics

These hot nutrition topics have been highly debated in the sports world in the past year and are relevant for 2020 as more research and evidence come to light:

Should parents take a more active role in their children’s athletic diets at school?
Should college universities take more effective steps toward introducing healthy diets for their student-athletes?
Are vegans and vegetarian athletes at greater risk of developing health problems?
Should athletes try to avoid fats (including healthy fats) to cut weight?
How effective is the “moderation” diet in keeping athletes at competitive health levels?

Topics in Clinical Nutrition

These nutrition topics for college students are ideal for research papers of 10 or more pages and are sure to garner much attention from even the toughest professors:

What research is there to support the belief that aggressive and argumentative behavior can be influenced by poor nutrition?
Are vitamins and supplements adequate at replacing important nutrients from a healthy diet?
Do people eat enough vitamins known to be essential to a healthy lifestyle?
Should all fast-food restaurants be held to the recommended standards of a healthy diet in the U.S.?
How many times per month should people eat alternative or unnatural foods?

Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health Guide

Intro to Research

How to Write a Research Question

Scholarly Literature, News
Grey Literature, Data
Writing & Publishing
Citation Tools
Networking & Careers
Keeping Current
Food Systems, Nutrition, & Health Toolkit This link opens in a new window
Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health at the UW This link opens in a new window
Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health Major at the UW This link opens in a new window

Introduction

What characterizes a good question.

Well-conceptualized
Direct and clear
Includes all components (main concepts)

Why should I formulate a structured research question?

To point you in a specific direction (narrowing your scope/focus to ask a manageable question)
To identify the main concepts of your question
To help build your literature search strategy
To improve your information retrieval
To be able to evaluate the usefulness/appropriateness of the information retrieved

Identifying Key Concepts and Search Terms

Using a framework to develop your research question can help to identify the main concepts of your review topic (see further down the page). Whether you use a framework or not, the goal is to identify the main concepts of your question and the synonyms / similar terms that might be used to describe each of those concepts:

Combining search terms with Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) and parentheses:

Use AND to combine different main concepts of your search: Childhood AND Asthma. Narrows results (see gray overlapping section of Venn diagram).

Venn diagram of Childhood AND Asthma:

Use OR to include similar terms / synonyms (and sometimes antonyms) for a concept: childhood OR adolescence. Fertility OR infertility. Broadens results (see Venn diagram with all sections shaded in gray).

Venn diagram of Childhood OR Adolescence:

Parentheses

When you use synonyms and different concepts, you will need parentheses similar to the order of operations in math. Example: (childhood OR adolescence OR children) AND (asthma OR wheezing). This tells the database that any of the child terms must be in the article along with any of the asthma terms, but an article may not have just a child term or just an asthma term.

Use the Boolean operator NOT with caution. You will miss out on articles that talk about both concepts. For example: Child NOT Adult will miss articles that talk about children and adults, which may mean you don't see a key piece of information about your topic. To find information about children, the safer method is to include Child as a concept (e.g., AND (child OR childhood OR children OR kids)) to your search instead of 'NOTting' out Adults.

Venn diagram of NOT Adult when you want to see information about children; the center slice could contain relevant information about children that you would miss by using NOT Adult:

venn diagram of Child NOT Adult with only the Child portion in gray, the center slice and Adult portion are white.

Another example from Slippery Rock University Bailey Library using Peanut Butter and Jelly may further clarify the use of Boolean operators and parentheses.

Considerations for searching:

It is not always necessary to include all of your main concepts in the search. In some PICO questions, the outcome (O) is implied and does not need to be included. In other cases, any and all outcomes might of interest and so the search strategy can leave this out to keep it open.

Example research question: In seniors with dementia, does a falls prevention program, compared to no falls prevention program, result in decreased falls?

In the above PICO question, the comparator (C) can be left out of the search strategy as there is no great way to search for "not" having the intervention (in contrast to when there is a placebo or an alternate intervention as a comparison)
Also, the intervention (I) somewhat implies the outcome (O), so the outcome (decreased falls) can be left out of the search strategy
The main concepts that should be included in this particular search are: seniors (P1), dementia (P2), and falls prevention (I). Keep in mind though that there are different ways of describing these three concepts and so synonyms / similar terms are important to include in the search as well

Frameworks for Research Questions

Applying a framework when developing a research question can help to identify the key concepts and determine inclusion and exclusion criteria.

PICo: Population/Participants, phenomenon of Interest, Context
PICO(S): Patient/Problem, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, (Study design)
PECO(S): Patient/Problem, Exposure, Comparison, Outcome, (Study design)
PESICO: Person, Environment, Stakeholders, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome
PIPOH: Population, Interventions, Professionals/Patients, Outcome, Healthcare Setting
PS: Population, Situation
SPICE: Setting, Perspectives, Intervention, Comparison, Evaluation

Example: PICO Questions

P (Patient, Population, Problem)	I (Intervention)	C (Comparison)	O (Outcome)
How would I describe a group of patients similar to mine?	What main interventions, prognostic factors or exposure are you considering?	What is the main alternative to compare with the intervention?	What can you hope to accomplish, measure, improve or effect?
In: Otherwise healthy children…	Does: exposure to in utero cocaine…	Versus: children not exposed to in utero cocaine…	Result in: increased risk of learning disabilities?
In: Primary school children	Does: school-based physical activity	Versus: no school-based physical activity	Result in: a decrease in obesity

P (Patient, Population, Problem)

I (Intervention)

C (Comparison)

O (Outcome)

How would I describe a group of patients similar to mine?

What main interventions, prognostic factors or exposure are you considering?

What is the main alternative to compare with the intervention?

What can you hope to accomplish, measure, improve or effect?

In:

Otherwise healthy children…

Does:

exposure to in utero cocaine…

Versus:

children not exposed to in utero cocaine…

Result in:

increased risk of learning disabilities?

In:

Primary school children

Does:

school-based physical activity

Versus:

no school-based physical activity

Result in:

a decrease in obesity

Example: SPICE Question

S (Setting)	P (Perspective)	I (Intervention)	C (Comparison)	E (Evaluation)
Where?	For whom?	What?	Compared with what?	With what result?
In the setting of rural communities	From the perspective of a pregnant woman	How does facility-based care	Compare with traditional birth attendants at home	In relation to the woman’s perceptions and experiences?

Example from: Booth, A., Noyes, J., Flemming, K., Moore, G., Tunçalp, Ö., & Shakibazadeh, E. (2019). Formulating questions to explore complex interventions within qualitative evidence synthesis . BMJ Global Health, 4(Suppl 1), e001107.

Example: Nutritional Sciences

Search strategy development in the Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health Guide .

Formulating Research Questions

Underdeveloped question: .

What interventions help against vaping in youth?

Refined research question:

What strategies are effective for preventing nicotine vaping in youth?

The content of this page is almost entirely from Queen's University Library's Public Health Guide .

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Nutrition: Developing Topics & Research Questions

Research Process
Developing Topics & Research Questions
What Are Databases?
Database Exploration for Nutrition
How Do I Evaluate Health Information?
Culinary Videos
Getting Research Help

Developing a Research Question Takes Research

When the scope of your paper is too big, it's hard to dig through information and to write a paper wit any depth. The goal of most research papers in college is to seek a possible answer to a particular questions related to a topic. A research question, when not too broad or too narrow, helps guide and focus your paper.

The question should also be one in which you haven't decided on a pre-determined answer. You may find that looking for sources that provide a certain answer may be too limiting. The answer you are expecting might not be supported by evidence.

Brainstorm & do some pre-research

The research question isn't a question you make up at the top of your head. It's normal to start with a broad topic in mind. After doing some brainstorming about a topic, you will need to do some reading to find an angle to pursue, and, even then, your question may change as you find more information later.

Ask questions

From your pre-research, think about questions you might be able to ask regarding the topic. Most scholarly research examines fairly narrow topics and looks at relationships between concepts. One way to limit the scope of your topic is to ask who, what, where, when, why, and how questions.

Be flexible

It's okay to continue to tweak your question; the end result should be that you have answered the question you've laid out in the introduction, even if the introduction is the last paragraph you actually end up revising in your final paper.

Picking Your Topic IS Research

North Carolina State University (NCSU) Libraries, 3:10

OER Book Chapters

The Qualities of a Good Research Question from LibreTexts
Research Questions from Choosing & Using Sources: A Guide to Academic Research, Teaching & Learning, Ohio State University Libraries

Research is a Process

Anna Eisen (2:35)

Encourages students to develop background knowledge to create a research question. Research questions should have topic, question and significance. The narrator suggests using the following formulation: I’m studying _______________ to investigate ______________ in order to understand. Complex research questions take time to create.

Keeping your research question in mind, if you can answer TRUE to the statements below, your research question is probably workable.

It cannot simply be answered with a yes/no.
It has social significance/a problem associated with it.
There is reliable evidence available to address it.
It has appropriate scope.

Be careful about investigating questions that you think you already have the answer to.

Choosing a Manageable Research Topic

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What Makes Nutrition Research So Difficult to Conduct and Interpret?

Mara z. vitolins.

1 Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC

Talsi L. Case

2 Nutrition and Foods Bachelor of Science Dietetics Program [student], Appalachian State University, Boone, NC

Conducting and interpreting nutrition research involves consideration of the research question, study design, wide variability of nutrients in foods and dietary patterns, food environment, approaches used to collect and analyze dietary data, and manner in which results are reported. This article reviews all of these considerations with regard to diabetes-related nutrition research.

Nutrition researchers are trained to examine the complex interplay between foods eaten and health and disease in individuals or populations. Given the huge potential impact of diet on a person’s health and the fact that everyone eats, it is no surprise that studies in human nutrition are crucially important. However, nutrition research has its challenges. To fully appreciate the many challenges surrounding nutrition research, it is important to understand some of the key elements involved, including research designs, the complexity of the food environment, and approaches to collecting and analyzing dietary data.

Nutrition research conducted to examine the role of diet in managing diabetes is particularly challenging because it involves assessing and intervening in patients’ lifestyle and habits, which are influenced by human nature; a food environment that is ever-changing; and data that are largely self-reported. Another challenge is how nutrition research results are described; unfortunately, nutrition research results are often simplified and misinterpreted. Entire books have described in great detail the fundamental approaches to and challenges of conducting nutrition research ( 1 , 2 ). Such a detailed discussion is beyond the scope of this article, which rather aims to create awareness of a handful of these issues.

Research Study Designs Are Important

When designing a nutrition research study, it is crucial to determine the best study design to answer the research question ( 1 , 2 ). Several research designs are commonly used to assess the impact of a dietary intervention on health and disease. Some of these include tightly controlled feeding studies, randomized clinical trials, and observational studies. Each design has advantages and disadvantages.

A feeding trial involves providing study participants with all meals, snacks, and beverages to control what they consume. Such trials provide the most control over participants’ dietary intake. Provided meals are carefully prepared, ingredients are weighed and measured, and participants are instructed to eat all the food they are provided (or to bring back what they did not eat). As an example, Bell et al. ( 3 , 4 ) used single-meal feeding trials to examine insulin dosing for protein and fat intake in participants with type 1 diabetes.

Feeding trials are expensive, and special facilities are needed to prepare and provide food for the participants. Feeding trials are usually short-term, not only because of the costs involved, but also because participants have to greatly modify their lives to adhere to eating only the foods and beverages provided by the trial. These trials usually enroll people who are quite different from the general public. For example, if a nutrition researcher wanted to study the impact of different amounts of dietary fiber on A1C levels, and wanted to include women with prediabetes who are 30–40 years of age, recruitment could prove to be difficult, and retaining participants could be even more challenging. The participants would need to be in the trial for at least 3 months to get meaningful changes in A1C; however, women in this age-group are likely to be married, have children, and be employed. To participate in such a trial, they would have to be willing to avoid eating any of the food prepared for the rest of their family, they would not be able share their trial-provided food with anyone else, and they would need to visit the research unit nearly every day to pick up meals.

The burden on participants enrolled in feeding trials is great, and the risk for nonadherence increased as the trial goes on. If participants do not strictly adhere to eating the foods they are provided, the findings of the trial can be seriously affected. Yet, it is difficult to precisely determine participants’ degree of adherence because they might eat foods other than those they were provided, share their foods with others, or not follow the protocol requiring them to bring back any foods they do not eat.

Feeding trials are not appropriate for answering questions about longer-term dietary exposures. Many diseases develop over time, so fully examining whether a particular dietary pattern affects health requires a long follow-up period and a large sample size. Randomized controlled intervention trials have been conducted to examine the effects of long-term dietary modification ( 5 – 7 ). Although these trials are not feeding trials, they still require a large budget and come with their own complexities. Research teams who have been able to conduct long-term dietary modification trials have relied on many different research methods and tools. Having close, ongoing contact with participants, carefully monitoring their adherence, and asking them to self-monitor what they eat are just a few of the key components of such trials.

These trials are labor-intensive for both researchers and participants, and in most cases, adherence has been shown to decrease after several months. Participant adherence to the intervention (and the control condition) is essential, but not always realized. Although nonadherence to protocol-specified behaviors is not a problem specific to nutrition research, the act of selecting, preparing, and eating foods is complex and repeated multiple times each day, providing many opportunities for nonadherence to the diet modification specified by the trial.

The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) trial is a good example of a large, randomized controlled intervention trial ( 8 ). Registered dietitians instructed participants in the intervention group to follow a healthful eating pattern, but meals were not provided. Participants had to learn approaches to reducing their fat and calorie intake to achieve a weight loss goal of 7% of baseline body weight and then to maintain their weight loss ( 8 ). They were required to self-monitor their behaviors, and dietitians reviewed this documentation regularly and provided constructive feedback. Participants attended weekly sessions during the first 24 weeks of the study. However, during the maintenance phase, contacts with the study team decreased to about twice per month. DPP participants had to remain adherent over a long period of time, so when contact frequency decreased, the research team had to work even more diligently to assist participants in meeting their study goals. If they had not done so, it would have been impossible to test the study hypothesis that lifestyle intervention would delay or prevent the development of type 2 diabetes in people with impaired glucose tolerance who were at high risk for developing the disease.

Observational studies have been used to track dietary intake in large numbers of participants and can be used to track such data over many years. Participants do not have to change their dietary behaviors to participate in an observational study. These studies are not as expensive to conduct, and the burden on participants and investigators is much lower.

Observational studies are not carefully controlled like clinical trials, so their results may be less reliable. Observational studies compare individuals who self-select to consume either a healthful or unhealthful diet, and the two groups may differ in other characteristics that could influence health ( 9 , 10 ). Nonetheless, such studies are vitally important for identifying possible connections between diet and health that can be further tested in randomized clinical trials.

Food Is Complicated

Nutrition researchers must be aware of and account for numerous food-related issues when collecting and analyzing dietary data. A few such issues are described below.

Foods and food products are available in different varieties, brands, and flavors. There are many options of the same type of food, yet the ingredients in each option may differ in ways that matter greatly to nutrition researchers. One brand of microwavable popcorn may contain butter, whereas another may contain buttery flavoring (butter-flavored coconut oil).

How food is cooked can change its nutrient profile. If vegetables are eaten fresh, many of their nutrients are preserved; however, if vegetables are boiled, many water-soluble nutrients can be lost. Many nutrients, including vitamin C, thiamin, and folic acid, are sensitive to temperature ( 11 ).

Where a food is prepared can make a substantial difference in the nutrient content because the ingredients used in their preparation can vary widely. Home-cooked foods versus restaurant-prepared foods can greatly differ in their nutrient composition.

Seasonal variations can make a difference in the nutrient content of fruits and vegetables. Also, those purchased directly from local farms have different levels of nutrients than those picked before they have ripened and been transported many miles to grocery stores.

The food environment is ever-changing, and food ingredients will continue to change, although consumers may not notice these changes at all. For example, until relatively recently, synthetic sources of trans fats were ubiquitous in bakery products as an emulsifier to improve creaming and reduce the rancidity of frying oil ( 12 ). Now, artificial trans fats are no longer contained in bakery products, or they have been greatly reduced ( 13 ). If a researcher wanted to examine the intake of cookies over time on health outcomes, using data overlapping this important change in the trans fat content of the cookies would greatly complicate this evaluation.

People Are Also Complicated

People vary in many ways, including by sex, race/ethnicity, BMI, economic status, metabolic rate, food preferences, exercise patterns, and fitness levels, among others. All of these differences could affect what study participants eat, how they metabolize what they eat, and how much they remember about what they eat.

The ability to assess dietary intake to explore diet-disease connections is essential to nutrition research but remains problematic for a number of reasons. Dietary data are typically obtained from participants who self-report what they eat ( 1 , 14 ). Common approaches used to collect dietary data include food records, food frequency questionnaires, and 24-hour recalls ( 1 , 14 ). To complete food records, participants are asked to carefully describe everything they eat or drink over a period of a few days, typically 3–4 days. Food records are burdensome to complete because participants must weigh and measure all of their foods and beverages and write all of this information down. To complete food frequency questionnaires, participants are asked to reflect on what they have typically eaten during the past 6 or 12 months, and it is known that participant recall is fallible. The 24-hour recall method collects dietary intake over a much shorter period of time, but participants can misreport what they eat.

Such misreporting can vary by participants’ personal characteristics. For example, a number of studies have shown that women and individuals who are heavier tend to underreport foods consumed ( 15 – 18 ). Underreporting of food intake by participants may reflect social desirability (i.e., not wanting to be judged by what they eat) ( 16 , 17 ). Underreporting may also reflect an inability to accurately estimate how much they actually consume. Extensive research has been conducted to identify approaches to mathematically adjust for misreported intake. Unfortunately, these corrections are not a perfect solution to fully address the problem of misreported food intake. Biomarkers have been studied to assist in the assessment of foods consumed. However, they carry with them a number of different, but still complicating, issues, including individual differences in nutrient absorption ( 19 ).

Food and Nutrition Databases Have Limitations

Food and nutrition databases are used to convert a consumed food to the specific nutrients contained in the food ( 20 ). These databases contain information about foods’ sources, profiles, nutrients, and dietary components.

It is not hard to imagine the complexity and difficulty involved in attempting to capture all of the different types and varieties of foods available to the public in one database. Each nutrient contained in each food is quantified. Significant effort goes into annually updating the content of food and nutrient databases as new foods are introduced to the marketplace almost daily. The databases are enormous because the intention is usually to include as many foods (and their variations) as possible. For example, there are more than 40 chicken soup options from which to choose in the U.S. Department of Agriculture/Agricultural Research Service Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies ( 21 ).

Food and nutrient databases cannot include every component of every food. For example, nutrients are not the only components contained in foods, and the nonnutritive components in foods are usually not included in these databases. Vegetables and fruits contain many nonnutritive compounds, including dithiolthiones, monoterpenes, indoles sterols, and sulfhydryls. Although these components are not nutritional, they are in the foods research participants eat, and they may be important to health.

It is also known that food packaging may have an impact on health. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a good example of a nonnutritive but important exposure that was linked to food packaging. BPA is considered an endocrine disruptor, and the primary source of exposure to BPA is through the diet ( 22 ). BPA has been known to leach into food from internal epoxy resin coatings on cans used for canning foods such as soups and vegetables. BPA is not included in food and nutrition databases.

Reporting of Nutrition Research Findings Can Be Confusing

Once a research study is published, its results are likely to be picked up by the lay press. Such reporting is where a good deal of nutrition confusion is created. Nutrition is a topic of great interest to people, particularly those who have been diagnosed with diabetes, who often inquire about which diet is best to help them achieve target glucose levels or to lose or maintain body weight. Where they get answers to such questions matters; unfortunately, most people learn about nutrition research findings in the popular press or rely on the Internet for nutrition information. Although a wealth of nutrition information is available, some of it may be unreliable.

The online newsletter “Obesity and Energetics Offerings,” from the Indiana School of Public Health in Bloomington and the University of Alabama–Birmingham, provides some excellent examples of headlines that have failed to accurately describe the results of nutrition studies. The newsletter’s “Headline vs. Study” section on 11 October 2019 ( 23 ), for example, provided a link to an article in Women’s Health magazine titled, “Snacking on Nuts Found to Help Prevent Weight Gain” ( 24 ), followed by a link to the actual research report on which the article was based. The study was not a randomized controlled trial, the nuts were not provided to participants, and the participants self-reported both their nut intake and their weight. Although consumers reading the magazine headline might have thought that snacking on nuts would help them control their weight, all the research really found was an association—not necessarily causal—between self-reported nut intake and self-reported weight ( 25 ).

Similarly, data from the Women’s Health Initiative study cohort were used to explore links between chocolate consumption and the risk of diabetes ( 26 ). The authors cautiously presented their finding of an inverse relationship between chocolate intake and incident diabetes at moderate levels of chocolate consumption. However, press reports about the study simply suggested that eating chocolate would stave off diabetes ( 27 ).

Because patients may not be able to interpret the results of nutrition-related studies they see reported in the news, health care providers should be prepared to discuss these issues when patients inquire. Most Americans likely do not understand the nuances of such research or how links between foods or diets and chronic disease outcomes are stronger when supported by consistent evidence from basic science research, feeding studies, observational cohort studies, and randomized controlled clinical trials. People do not always realize that findings from one study cannot stand alone and that results from multiple studies are usually needed to create the robust evidence necessary for nutrition recommendations. Health care providers can help patients better understand nutrition research findings reported in the popular media by asking them to think about how many times they have read or heard about so-called “miracle foods.”

Importantly, when patients ask questions about nutrition-related news articles, they are opening the door to discussing their own dietary habits. Health care providers might consider providing simple suggestions for improving dietary intake (e.g., drink water instead of sugary beverages or eat vegetables at every meal), referral to a dietitian, and information about Internet sites that support evidence-based dietary recommendations.

To address conflicting data and nutrition recommendations, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) routinely reviews diabetes-related nutrition research and determines whether the evidence is strong enough to issue guidelines or recommend changes to the standards of care. The recently published, “Nutrition Therapy for Adults With Diabetes or Prediabetes: A Consensus Report” ( 28 ), for example, summarized the evidence supporting a new recommendation acknowledging that several different dietary patterns are acceptable for people who have prediabetes.

Everyone eats, making diet one of the most common exposures possibly influencing health and disease outcomes. Nutrition research is complicated by numerous factors inherent in this area of inquiry. Inaccurate reporting in the lay press can further complicate things and create confusion in the public. The ADA reviews data and provides consensus reports and clinical practice guidelines to reduce the confusion. Studies such as the DPP illustrate that nutrition research has enormous potential for preventing and improving the management of diabetes and improving overall health. Nutrition, with its myriad health implications, is an exciting, challenging, and ever-evolving area of research.

Article Information

Duality of interest.

No potential conflicts of interest relevant to this article were reported.

Author Contributions

M.Z.V. researched data and wrote the manuscript. T.L.C. researched data and reviewed and edited the manuscript. M.Z.V. is the guarantor of this work and, as such, had full access to all the data and takes responsibility for the integrity of the information presented.

Topic Overviews
Research Databases
Peer Reviewed Journals

Formulating a research question

Evidence based practice, ada evidence-based practice, research methodologies in pubmed, surveys on dietary intake and nutritional studies, searching pubmed with keywords and mesh.

Health Statistics & Data
Books - AJCN Style
Online / Internet References - AJCN Style
Journal Articles - AJCN Style

Tutoria l | How to build an evidence based research question.

"PICO" is a mnemonic acronym to help you remember the elements that should be identified when formulating a question and search strategy to retrieve the most recent, pertinent, and valid research studies to guide decision making that results in quality healthcare.

P = Population (usually identifies a specific population with topic of interest)

I = Intervention

C = Comparison

O = Outcome

What is Evidence-Based Practice?

Sample evidence analysis questions

American Dietetic Association

ADA Evidence Analysis Library :

(December 2010)
(July 2010)	(April 2008)
(Oct 2009)	(March 2008)
(June 2009)	(Oct 2007)
(May 2009)	(June 2007)
(Dec 2008)	(Sept 2006)
(Oct 2008)	(May 2006)
(July 2008)	(2005)--Added DLM

PubMed MESH for research methodologies

Paste the term [mh] OR term [pt] into PubMed search box

Prospective Studies [mh]

Observation of a population for a sufficient number of persons over a sufficient number of years to generate incidence or mortality rates subsequent to the selection of the study group.

Retrospective Studies [mh]

Studies used to test etiologic hypotheses in which inferences about an exposure to putative causal factors are derived from data relating to characteristics of persons under study or to events or experiences in their past. The essential feature is that some of the persons under study have the disease or outcome of interest and their characteristics are compared with those of unaffected persons.

Cross-Sectional Studies [mh]

Studies in which the presence or absence of disease or other health-related variables are determined in each member of the study population or in a representative sample at one particular time. This contrasts with LONGITUDINAL STUDIES which are followed over a period of time.

Longitudinal Studies [mh]

Studies in which variables relating to an individual or group of individuals are assessed over a period of time.

Qualitative Research [mh]

Research that derives data from observation, interviews, or verbal interactions and focuses on the meanings and interpretations of the participants.

Quantitative Studies

a Case Reports [mh]

Clinical presentations that may be followed by evaluative studies that eventually lead to a diagnosis.

aa Case Control Studies [mh]

Studies which start with the identification of persons with a disease of interest and a control (comparison, referent) group without the disease. The relationship of an attribute to the disease is examined by comparing diseased and non-diseased persons with regard to the frequency or levels of the attribute in each group.

b Cohort Studies [mh]

Studies in which subsets of a defined population are identified. These groups may or may not be exposed to factors hypothesized to influence the probability of the occurrence of a particular disease or other outcome. Cohorts are defined populations which, as a whole, are followed in an attempt to determine distinguishing subgroup characteristics.

c Clinical Trials [pt]

Work that is the report of a pre-planned clinical study of the safety, efficacy, or optimum dosage schedule of one or more diagnostic, therapeutic, or prophylactic drugs, devices, or techniques in humans selected according to predetermined criteria of eligibility and observed for predefined evidence of favorable and unfavorable effects. While most clinical trials concern humans, this publication type may be used for clinical veterinary articles meeting the requisites for humans. (PubMed LIMIT)

cc Randomized Controlled Trials [pt]

Work consisting of a clinical trial that involves at least one test treatment and one control treatment, concurrent enrollment and follow-up of the test- and control-treated groups, and in which the treatments to be administered are selected by a random process, such as the use of a random-numbers table. (PubMed LIMIT)

ccc Controlled Clinical Trials [pt]

Work consisting of a clinical trial involving one or more test treatments, at least one control treatment, specified outcome measures for evaluating the studied intervention, and a bias-free method for assigning patients to the test treatment. The treatment may be drugs, devices, or procedures studied for diagnostic, therapeutic, or prophylactic effectiveness. Control measures include placebos, active medicine, no-treatment, dosage forms and regimens, historical comparisons, etc. When randomization using mathematical techniques, such as the use of a random numbers table, is employed to assign patients to test or control treatments, the trial is characterized as a RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL (PubMed LIMIT)

d Epidemiological Studies [mh]

Studies designed to examine associations, commonly, hypothesized causal relations. They are usually concerned with identifying or measuring the effects of risk factors or exposures. The common types of analytic study are CASE-CONTROL STUDIES, COHORT STUDIES, and CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDIES.

e Meta-analysis [pt]

Works consisting of studies using a quantitative method of combining the results of independent studies (usually drawn from the published literature) and synthesizing summaries and conclusions which may be used to evaluate therapeutic effectiveness, plan new studies, etc. It is often an overview of clinical trials. It is usually called a meta-analysis by the author or sponsoring body and should be differentiated from reviews of literature. (PubMed LIMIT)

Additional PubMed MESH for studies

Multi-center Study [pt]

Controlled studies which are planned and carried out by several cooperating institutions to assess certain variables and outcomes in specific patient populations. For example, a multi-center study of congenital anomalies in children. (PubMed LIMIT)

Evaluation Study [pt]

Studies determining the effectiveness or value of processes, personnel, and equipment, or the material on conducting such studies. For drugs and devices, CLINICAL TRIALS, DRUG EVALUATION, and DRUG EVALUATION, PRE-CLINICAL are available. (PubMed LIMIT)

Validation Study [pt]

Works consisting of research using processes by which the reliability and relevance of a procedure for a specific purpose are established. (PubMed LIMIT)

Secondary Resources

Meta-analysis [pt]

Systematic Reviews (enter search as follows) systematic [sb]

Cochrane Handbook | 1.2.2 What is a systematic review?

A systematic review attempts to collate all empirical evidence that fits pre-specified eligibility criteria in order to answer a specific research question. It uses explicit, systematic methods that are selected with a view to minimizing bias, thus providing more reliable findings from which conclusions can be drawn and decisions made (Antman 1992, Oxman 1993) . The key characteristics of a systematic review are:

a clearly stated set of objectives with pre-defined eligibility criteria for studies;

an explicit, reproducible methodology;

a systematic search that attempts to identify all studies that would meet the eligibility criteria;

an assessment of the validity of the findings of the included studies, such as through the assessment of risk of bias; and

a systematic presentation, and synthesis, of the characteristics and findings of the included studies.

Many systematic reviews contain meta-analyses. Meta-analysis is the use of statistical methods to summarize the results of independent studies (Glass 1976). By combining information from all relevant studies, meta-analyses can provide more precise estimates of the effects of health care than those derived from the individual studies included within a review (see Chapter 9, Section 9.1.3 ). They also facilitate investigations of the consistency of evidence across studies and the exploration of differences across studies.

PubMed http://www.nlm.nih.gov/bsd/pubmed_subsets/sysreviews_strategy.html

Review [pt]

An article or book published after examination of published material on a subject. It may be comprehensive to various degrees and the time range of material scrutinized may be broad or narrow, but the reviews most often desired are reviews of the current literature. The textual material examined may be equally broad and can encompass, in medicine specifically, clinical material as well as experimental research or case reports. State-of-the-art reviews tend to address more current matters. A review of the literature must be differentiated from HISTORICAL ARTICLE on the same subject, but a review of historical literature is also within the scope of this publication type.

Search Using MESH

Search MeSH when retrieving long-standing and commonly used Nutrition concepts such as Nutrition Assessment, Nutrition Surveys, and Diet Surveys.

Enter the first MESH term into the PubMed search box. When you search Nutrition Assessment [mh], PubMed uses an "Explode" strategy to augment your search that also searches the narrower MESH terms found in the MESH hierarchy in the MESH Database.

Nutrition Assessment [mh]

Nutrition Surveys [mh]

Diet Surveys [mh]

Find definitions for MESH terms - Go to MESH Database

Nutrition Assessment | Evaluation and measurement of nutritional variables in order to assess the level of nutrition or the NUTRITIONAL STATUS of the individual. NUTRITION SURVEYS may be used in making the assessment.

Nutrition Surveys | A systematic collection of factual data pertaining to the nutritional status of a human population within a given geographic area. Data from these surveys are used in preparing NUTRITION ASSESSMENTS

Diet Surveys |Systematic collections of factual data pertaining to the diet of a human population within a given geographic area.

Search acronymns (NHANES) using Keywords

Some concepts that you search will not yet have or ever have MESH controlled vocabulary assigned to them. Terms without MESH include acronyms like NHANES. Search NHANES two ways. First, search for the acronym in the title by entering it as follows nhanes [ti]

nhanes [ti]

If you wish to broaden your search to see articles that include your terms in the abstract too, just perform a keyword search without limiting to a field.

nhanes

Search several synonyms at once using keywords

Without MESH to identify articles that truly cover your topic, searching a keyword in the title better distinguishs articles that truly cover your topic from those that do not. Without MESH to map all articles using other synonyms to your topic, repeat your search with each synonym. You can search several synonyms together by using OR as illustrated below.

obese OR obesity OR overweight

What is the MESH term for obesity?

A status with BODY WEIGHT that is grossly above the acceptable or desirable weight, usually due to accumulation of excess FATS in the body. The standards may vary with age, sex, genetic or cultural background. In the BODY MASS INDEX, a BMI greater than 30.0 kg/m2 is considered obese, and a BMI greater than 40.0 kg/m2 is considered morbidly obese (MORBID OBESITY).

All MeSH Categories

Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques and Equipment Category

Diagnosis

Diagnostic Techniques and Procedures

Physical Examination

Body Constitution

Body Weights and Measures

Body Size

Body Weight

Overweight

Obesity

Obesity, Morbid

PubMed designed for novice and the expert

PubMED offers two search strategies: MESH (Medical Subject Heading) and KEYWORD. Using these together quickly accesses the most relevant articles and provides you with control of your search.

PubMed subject specialists assign MESH terms to articles that truly cover the topic and assign the same MESH term to articles even then an author uses a different synonym for the topic. Thus, it maps all articles to one MESH term that cover your topic.

If MESH existed for every term, KEYWORD searching would not be required. MESH is assigned to every article, but there is a time delay before newly entered articles are assigned MESH. Additionally, acronymns are not assigned MESH. New drug names, new terms and newly coined phrases take a while to be formally defined, widely used, and formally adopted by the professionals using it; only then is MESH assigned.

First search for keywords in TITLE, then in ALL FIELDS, then search using MESH. Search history and combine search sets, click HISTORY. To see how PubMED searches your terms entered into the search box, click DETAILS.

Find MESH terms in three places

There are three ways to identify MESH terms.

Find MESH terms with their definitions in the MESH DATABASE . Once you find a useful term send it to PubMed to be searched. To search MESH term: Check the box next to the term, at far left, click LINK, at opened menu select "PubMed" to send to be searched. Click HISTORY to see search strategy so far.

Find MESH terms in DETAILS. after entering and searching a term; click the DETAILS tab to see how PubMed searched it. Copy and paste the MESH term into the search box.

When viewing articles retrieved from a search, switch Display from Summary view to CITATION view and scroll below abstract to view the MESH for each article that has been processed and assigned MESH. If you see an useful highlighted MESH term following the abstract, just clicking it will send it to PubMed to be searched.

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URL: https://libguides.asu.edu/nutrition

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Repeatedly ranked #1 in innovation (ASU ahead of MIT and Stanford), sustainability (ASU ahead of Stanford and UC Berkeley), and global impact (ASU ahead of MIT and Penn State)

3 Research Questions Could Hold the Key to Sustainable Eating

Two USDA researchers looking at a row of vegetables

When it comes to healthy eating, there’s a lot we already know.

Just take a look at the scientific report issued by the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee , the group of scientific experts behind the newly released 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans . At 835 pages, the report spans a rigorous review of current research on dozens of topics, from whether eating peanuts early in life reduces the likelihood of peanut allergies (it probably does), to how much added sugar we can eat and still maintain a healthy diet ( way less than what we’re eating now ). It also outlines the broad contours of a healthy diet, which has changed little from past editions of the Dietary Guidelines : it’s typically higher in vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, low- or non-fat dairy, lean meat and poultry, seafood, nuts, and unsalted vegetable oils, and lower in red and processed meats, sugar-sweetened foods and drinks, and refined grains.

But food is more than just nutrition. We also know that food can affect the health of many people before it even reaches our plates. For example, pollution caused by fertilizer runoff from farms have left communities without access to safe drinking water, while many of the people who produce our food don’t earn enough to afford healthy diets themselves. So, is it possible to eat in ways that promote health and produce better outcomes for our collective wellbeing, livelihoods, and natural resources? And what would it take to get us there?

These are complex questions, but critical ones—and if the federal government made it a national priority to answer them, we might have a chance at avoiding otherwise devastating consequences.

That’s why leading experts and scientific bodies, including the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee , are increasingly calling attention to the importance of research on sustainable diets . Though there is no official record of how much federal funding is currently supporting this field, funding for nutrition research across the board has remained stagnant for decades . Research funding at the intersection of food and agriculture issues, in particular, is decidedly inadequate to address the magnitude of the public health challenges before us, including climate change, threats to food security, and persistent poverty and health disparities.

Many, including UCS, are working to change that by advocating for greater government investment in sustainable diets research. Here are three of the most pressing questions that research can answer to enable more sustainable eating for all.

1. When it comes to healthy and environmentally sustainable diets, what exactly is on the menu?

Research on healthy and environmentally sustainable diets has seen extraordinary growth in recent years. According to UCS research , nearly 100 new scholarly articles were published on this topic between 2015 and 2019, including 22 articles focused specifically on US diets. For reference, that’s more than four times the number of articles published on the same topic between 2000 and 2015—in about a quarter of the time.

Much of this research agrees that, in general, healthy diets that are higher in plant-based foods and lower in animal-based foods are more environmentally sustainable—meaning they are often associated with reduced energy and land use, as well as less air and water pollution.

This is an important finding that enables us to take the first steps toward more sustainable diets—and each step is critical, given the urgency and magnitude of dual public health and climate crises. Indeed, a number of other countries already have acted on existing knowledge to incorporate sustainability into national dietary guidance .

But the more we know, the faster (and further) we can move forward.

For example, we need to better understand the impacts of all different kinds of dietary shifts that could improve health and sustainability, and the most effective ways to encourage such shifts at the individual, institutional, and societal levels . We also need to better understand how a wide variety of sustainable diets align with diverse cultures and culinary traditions . Both of these areas of research will be crucial to informing practical public health interventions and policy recommendations that can help all people make meaningful changes.

There are also challenges with available data and models. Many studies on sustainable diets rely on models called Life Cycle Assessments , which help estimate the cumulative environmental impacts of the foods we eat. For example, how much energy is required to process, package, and transport a pound of beef from the farm to the grocery store? How much land, water, and energy was required to raise the cattle? While a Life Cycle Assessment is useful in providing general estimates, it’s often based on averages that don’t account for key differences in production methods, for example, or regions. More data—and more diverse data sources—could make this an even more powerful and practical tool.

These and other outstanding research gaps prompted the Interagency Committee on Human Nutrition Research (ICHNR), an interdisciplinary group of leaders across key federal agencies, to identify sustainable diets as a research priority in the creation of its 2016-2021 National Nutrition Research Roadmap. And though interest in this topic continues to grow, there is evidence that federal funding remains woefully inadequate to support independent research on sustainable diets and food systems.

2. How could more socially and economically sustainable food systems support healthy eating?

While environmental sustainability receives a lot of attention, a truly sustainable diet also takes into account the social and economic conditions that can threaten our health, wellbeing, and the future of our food supply.

Among these considerations are the persistent health and economic disparities embedded in the current US food system, which disproportionately affect Black, Indigenous, and other resilient communities of color who have faced decades of racist and discriminatory practices and policies. Even before the pandemic, the people working throughout the US food system —nearly 40 percent of whom are people of color—experienced greater poverty, poorer healthcare access, and higher occupational health hazards relative to the general population. Many of these same populations are also most vulnerable to the environmental consequences of unsustainable food systems, such as climate change, water pollution, and other environmental impacts. The irony should not be lost on anyone that many Indigenous populations have for generations produced food in harmony with ecological systems—a way of living that, in the US and elsewhere, was deeply and violently disrupted by colonization and genocide.

Pervasive exploitation in the food chain can function to make certain foods cheap, while also preventing workers from being able to afford healthy diets themselves. And unfortunately, this isn’t a challenge unique to workers in the food chain. Many US households are already struggling to afford a healthy —let alone sustainable—diet.

So how can research help?

For one, there are an increasing number of studies that are putting dollar signs on healthier and more sustainable diets. Understanding what these diets might cost consumers, and what segments of the population might be unable to afford them, is an important first step in creating policy and programs that can bring healthier and more sustainable eating into reach for more people. Existing research on programs and initiatives such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (also known as SNAP), cash assistance programs, or minimum wage increases will also be useful in identifying the best ways to increase consumer purchasing power, particularly among low-income households. Perhaps most importantly, effective community-based participatory research can support community efforts to resist and address the root causes of social and economic disparities, including racism and exploitative economic systems. Organizations like the HEAL Food Alliance , a multi-racial coalition building a national movement to transform food and farming systems, should be looked to as experts and leaders in shaping the goals and objectives of research that will impact the communities they represent.

3. What are the synergies and tradeoffs when you value both public health and sustainability?

Not every food choice that supports health will support sustainability, and vice versa. In fact, as our research shows , if the US population shifted from our current diet to a healthier diet, greenhouse gas emissions, energy use, and water use could actually increase. This is due in part to the fact that many fruits and vegetables—which most of us don’t eat nearly enough of—are produced in ways that require a lot of water and energy.

Another commonly cited example is the conflict between US dietary recommendations for fish and shellfish and the ability of fisheries to meet this demand in a sustainable way—an issue highlighted by experts in a National Academies of Science workshop and the 2015 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee .

None of this is to say that we should abandon our efforts to eat healthfully. Rather, it’s to say that we need to do some problem-solving if we want to eat in ways that are healthy and sustainable for people and the planet, and research can play a key role in helping us get there.

Solving the sustainable food Rubik’s cube

It was more than thirty years ago that federal policy established the first specific directives for prioritizing nutrition research, yet its funding has remained stagnant for decades and coordination across federal agencies remains inconsistent. Meanwhile, many complex factors are fueling the public health challenges embedded in the US food system: rates of diet-related disease and health disparities continue to climb, the degradation of soil and other natural resources has grown more dire, many workers are still underpaid and unsafe, and climate change is now a reality that looms large in our daily lives.

It’s time for the next generation of nutrition research. To fill these gaps in research and provide information we need to make the best possible policy decisions, we must invest in research that is systems-oriented and can help identify healthy diets that deliver the best possible social, economic, and environmental benefits for all populations. Such research must span disciplines, take leadership from communities most affected by health disparities and environmental injustices, and at its core focus on tackling root causes of the greatest threats facing the food system, including the systemic exploitation of people and finite resources.

President Biden’s administration has no shortage of opportunities to prioritize this area of research, which sits at the nexus of some of its foremost policy priorities . US Department of Agriculture Secretary Vilsack is well positioned to play a powerful role in lifting up and improving coordination of nutrition research needs, particularly as he works to rebuild capacity in the department’s research arms. And Congress, for its part, can leverage legislative opportunities such as appropriations and the potential reauthorization of child nutrition programs to ensure that funding is finally available to answer these and other critical nutrition research questions.

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What is PICO(T)

Sample pico(t) questions, turning search terms into a search strategy.

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Image Reused with permission of Hawaii Pacific University

Formulating a PICOT question is the first step in the process of carrying out a focused literature review and analysis of evidence.

PICOT is an acronym for the elements of the clinical question: a way of asking a clinical question that will help guide the search for evidence.

P = Patient population of interest: Identify patients by age, gender, ethnicity, disease or health problem

I = Intervention of interest (can also be issue of interest that has no comparison): Which intervention is worthwhile to use in practice? Which issue is studied (e.g. a treatment, diagnostic test, prognostic factor)?

C = Comparison of interest (you do not always have a comparison): What is the usual standard of care or current intervention used now in practice?

O = Outcome: What results do you wish to achieve or observe as a result of an intervention (e.g. change in patient behavior, physical findings, patient perception)?

T = Time (you do not always have a time frame): What amount of time is needed for an intervention to achieve an outcome (e.g. the amount of time needed to change quality of life or patient behavior)?

Example: "How effective is the consumption of low glycemic index foods for reducing energy intake and promoting weight loss in adults?

Population	Adults
Intervention	Consumption of low glycemic index foods
Comparison	No comparison
Outcome	Weight loss, and reduced energy intake

The scenario will help you to develop a PICOT Question:

Scenario: A 47 year old woman comes to see you. She is overweight, concerned about her overall health, and would like to lose weight quickly. She has heard a report on the radio suggesting that resistant corn or potato starch can reduce obesity. You begin to investigate any evidence to support this .

Population: overweight adults

Intervention: resistant starch

Comparison: ordinary starch

Outcome: weight loss

PICOT Question: In overweight adults, how does resistant starch compared with ordinary starch effect weight loss?

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Last Updated: Apr 1, 2024 4:25 PM
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The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and The Journal of Nutrition – essential resources for your nutrition research

Xingen Lei, PhD

Christopher Duggan, MD, MPH

About this video

We invite you to watch the webinar recording of the American Society of Nutrition. The editor-in-chief of The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition , Dr. Christopher Duggan, and the editor-in-chief of The Journal of Nutrition , Dr. Xingen Lei, introduced these two journals to you and detailed why reading high-impact journals can advance your research. In the Q&A session, the two editors-in-chief answered questions from the live audience regarding publishing in the two journals.

If you find our journals beneficial to your research or community, please request institutional access using the links on the right side. With your request, your affiliated library may review the subscription option.

About The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition is an official monthly publication of the American Society for Nutrition (ASN) and focuses on well-controlled clinical studies that describe scientific mechanisms, efficacy, and safety of dietary interventions in the context of disease prevention or a health benefit. Public health and epidemiologic studies relevant to human nutrition, and innovative investigations of nutritional questions that employ epigenetic, genomic, proteomic, and metabolomic approaches are also encouraged.

About The Journal of Nutrition The Journal of Nutrition is the premier journal in its field and publishes peer-reviewed original research papers covering all aspects of experimental nutrition in humans and other animal species; special articles such as reviews and biographies of prominent nutrition scientists; and issues, opinions, and commentaries on controversial issues in nutrition.

About the presenters

Editor-in-Chief of The Journal of Nutrition, Professor of Molecular Nutrition, Associate Dean of Research and Innovation, Cornell University

Editor-in-Chief of The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition , Samuel Meltzer Professor of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School

Learn more about The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Request institution access to The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Learn more about The Journal of Nutrition

Request institution access to The Journal of Nutrition

What to Know About Fish Oil and What Experts Say to the Latest Heart Health Findings

Supplement advice can be confusing and the latest research on fish oil and heart health underscores that one size certainly doesn't fit all.

Added coconut oil to cheap coffee before keto made it cool.

In the wellness world, few things are equally as common and as confusing to swallow as advice about vitamins and supplements and whether they have any benefit.

Research published last month in the journal BMJ Medicine looked at the risk-vs.-benefit profile of fish oil on heart health, suggesting from a years-long study that regularly taking fish oil may slightly increase the risk of cardiovascular events, including atrial fibrillation and stroke, in people who didn't have a high risk.

In those who already had cardiovascular disease, the researchers found a benefit to taking fish oil supplements and how the disease progressed.

Fish oil supplements may be the most common type of omega-3 supplement people can get over-the-counter. They're often in capsule form, and people reach for them because other research has linked omega-3 intake to potentially benefiting a variety of health concerns , including rheumatoid arthritis, cognition and even things like ADHD. Most recently, it has linked omega-3 supplementation to a reduction in anger .

But the fact that fish oil supplementation may not benefit heart health for the general population is "not a new issue, just a new paper on the issue," Dr. Andrew Freeman, a cardiologist with National Jewish Health in Denver, told CNET.

He added that over-the-counter fish oil supplements are different from the "highly purified" forms of fish oil, including Lovaza and Vascepa , that people can get from their doctor with a prescription to lower triglycerides. (High triglycerides contribute to cardiovascular risk.)

While far from the final word on the benefits and risks of omega-3 supplements (there were limitations to this study, including the big fact people self-reported fish oil intake so this research doesn't reflect dosage), it dredges up questions that continue to bump up against supplement recommendations in general, like the fact they're not regulated for safety or effectiveness by the US Food and Drug Administration, and the fact we're meant to get the majority of our nutrients from food and diet.

Certain eating patterns that focus largely on plant-based foods full of healthy fats, lean proteins and some food-based fish oil sources (including diets like the Mediterranean diet ) continue to be linked to positive health findings. Those diets may be rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients, but it's proven difficult to replicate those benefits in supplement form.

Another important caveat is that people take supplements (including omega-3s and fish oil) for different reasons beyond heart health, so advice on whether you should take one depends on you, your diet and your health goals that may change over a lifetime.

"There is not a lot of evidence for omega-3 supplements in general," Dr. Navya Mysore , a primary care physician based in New York, said in an email. If someone is interested in adding one to their routine for whatever health concern, she said, it's a good idea to check in with a doctor before "making a personalized decision for yourself."

Read more: Omega-3 Rich Foods Offer Many Benefits for Heart, Hearing and Overall Health

What did the study find? Strengths and limitations

The BMJ Medicine study followed more than 400,000 participants, ages 40 to 69, enrolled in the UK Biobank study, following their health events and lifestyle and dietary factors they reported, including whether they regularly took fish oil supplements, their regular food consumption and more.

After years-long follow-up, researchers found that fish oil supplementation in people who already had cardiovascular disease was beneficial, but in the general population (i.e. those without cardiovascular disease), regularly taking fish oil was linked to increased risk of first-time heart disease and stroke.

Strengths of the study are that it is large and it was able to track incidences of heart events. Researchers also collected details on some factors that can influence heart health, like smoking, binge drinking and general diet. However, it "did not consider behavioral changes in populations with different cardiovascular profiles," the researchers wrote. It also can't account for all health-affecting behaviors that may influence someone's wellness choices, which are notoriously tricky to separate and pin down to one cause or effect.

Also, most participants in the study were white, the researchers noted, so whether the same link can be drawn to people of other races is unknown from this study alone. And importantly, it did not account for the dosage of fish oil people were taking or specific brands or types.

A piece of salmon with broccoli and supplements

Some foods that naturally include omega-3s include fish and seafood, nuts and seeds, plant oils and some fortified foods.

Should people base their decisions on this study? Probably not

The latest findings should not make you panic and feel that your omega-3s or fish oil pills are heart problems in a bottle; as the study's authors noted, more research is needed on the link between cardiovascular events and fish oil, and it comes on the tail of ongoing research into the comprehensive, complicated tie between omega-3s and different health benefits when they come in supplement form. At least for the general population, much of it has been conflicting or inconclusive.

This study alone isn't enough to definitively sway the fish oil benefits argument, according to Dr. Gregory Katz, a cardiologist with NYU Langone.

"To change clinical practice, only a randomized trial actually lets you see cause and effect," Katz said in an email. "A study like this doesn't tell you whether the fish oil caused the irregular heartbeats."

But, he said, "There's been a signal in some of the clinical trials on high-dose omega-3 supplements -- that there may be an increased risk of an irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation," which does increase the risk of stroke.

When asked whether vegan or vegetarian omega-3 supplements would be better -- those that come from ALA instead of DHA and EPA, the evidence is also murky, since ALA is a "precursor in the body to DHA and EPA, which are the active omega-3s," Katz said, adding that the way it's converted to active omega-3s isn't as efficient and it may be "not all that useful."

So all of this circles back to the same advice: Get your omega-3s (and all other nutrients) from your food when possible. If that's not possible, talk with your doctor about starting a dietary supplement or using additional vitamins. Because people may be interested in taking omega-3s for different health reasons beyond heart health, you should speak with someone who understands your health history so you can weigh your risks and benefits.

In a large summery last updated in 2023, which looked at available studies on omega-3s and omega-3 supplements for a whole scroll of health conditions including cardiovascular disease, the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements concluded that "consuming fish and other types of seafood as part of a balanced diet promotes heart health, especially when the seafood is consumed in place of less healthy foods." But evidence of protective heart-health benefits of supplements is stronger in people with existing disease.

The latest findings do drive home some much-needed nuance for supplements, though.

"Not everybody's the same," Freeman said of the latest fish oil study. "Not all drugs are the same, and what may seem benign may not always be the case."

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A variety of protein foods, including egg, salmon, beef, chicken, beans, lentils, almonds, quinoa, oats, broccoli, artichokes, yogurt, cheese, and tofu

Protein is an essential macronutrient, but not all food sources of protein are created equal, and you may not need as much as you think. Learn the basics about protein and shaping your diet with healthy protein foods.

Jump to: – What is protein? – How much protein do I need? – It’s all about the protein “package” – Research on protein and human health – Protein foods and the planet – The bottom line: choosing healthy protein foods – [Quiz] Test your protein knowledge!

What Is Protein?

Protein is found throughout the body—in muscle, bone, skin, hair, and virtually every other body part or tissue. It makes up the enzymes that power many chemical reactions and the hemoglobin that carries oxygen in your blood. At least 10,000 different proteins make you what you are and keep you that way.

Protein is made from twenty-plus basic building blocks called amino acids. Because we don’t store amino acids, our bodies make them in two different ways: either from scratch, or by modifying others. Nine amino acids—histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine—known as the essential amino acids, must come from food.

How Much Protein Do I Need?

The National Academy of Medicine recommends that adults get a minimum of 0.8 grams of protein for every kilogram of body weight per day, or just over 7 grams for every 20 pounds of body weight . [1]

For a 140-pound person, that means about 50 grams of protein each day.
For a 200-pound person, that means about 70 grams of protein each day.

The National Academy of Medicine also sets a wide range for acceptable protein intake—anywhere from 10% to 35% of calories each day. Beyond that, there’s relatively little solid information on the ideal amount of protein in the diet or the healthiest target for calories contributed by protein. In an analysis conducted at Harvard among more than 130,000 men and women who were followed for up to 32 years, the percentage of calories from total protein intake was not related to overall mortality or to specific causes of death. [2] However, the source of protein was important.

“Pure” protein, whether derived from plant or animal foods, probably has similar effects on health, although the mix of amino acids can have health implications. Some proteins found in food are “complete,” meaning they contain all twenty-plus types of amino acids needed to make new protein in the body. Others are incomplete, lacking one or more of the nine essential amino acids, which our bodies can’t make from scratch or from other amino acids. Animal-based foods (meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy foods) tend to be good sources of complete protein, while plant-based foods (fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds) often lack one or more essential amino acid. Those who abstain from eating animal-based foods can eat a variety of protein-containing plant foods each day in order to get all the amino acids needed to make new protein, and also choose to incorporate complete plant proteins like quinoa and chia seeds .

It’s important to note that millions of people worldwide, especially young children, don’t get enough protein due to food insecurity. The effects of protein deficiency and malnutrition range in severity from growth failure and loss of muscle mass to decreased immunity , weakening of the heart and respiratory system, and death.

However, it’s uncommon for healthy adults in the U.S. and most other developed countries to have a deficiency, because there’s an abundance of plant and animal-based foods full of protein. In fact, many in the U.S. are consuming more than enough protein, especially from animal-based foods. [3]

It’s All About the Protein “Package”

When we eat foods for protein, we also eat everything that comes alongside it: the different fats, fiber, sodium, and more. It’s this protein “package” that’s likely to make a difference for health.

The table below shows a sample of food “packages” sorted by protein content, alongside a range of components that come with it.

table comparing protein packages Food /[Category] Protein (g) Saturated Fat (g) Mono-unsaturated Fat (g) Poly-unsaturated Fat (g) ALA (g) Marine Omega-3 Fats (g) Fiber (g) Sodium (mg) Sirloin steak, broiled (4oz) [Red Meat] 33 4.6 4.9 0.4 0.4 0 0 66 Sockeye salmon, grilled (4oz) [Seafood] 30 1.1 2.1 1.5 0.3 1.0 0 104 Chicken, thigh, no skin (4oz) [Poultry] 28 2.7 3.9 2.0 0.1 0.1 0 120 Ham steak (4oz) [Red Meat] 22 1.6 2.2 0.5 0.5 0 0 1,439 Lentils (1 cup, cooked) [Legumes] 18 0.1 0.1 0.3 0.3 0 15 4 Milk (8oz) [Dairy] 8 3.1 1.4 0.2 0.3 O0 0 115 Almonds, dry roasted, unsalted (1oz) [Nuts] 6 1.2 9.4 3.4 0 0 3.1 1

To call out a few examples:

A 4-ounce broiled sirloin steak is a great source of protein—about 33 grams worth. But it also delivers about 5 grams of saturated fat .
A 4-ounce ham steak with 22 grams of protein has only 1.6 grams of saturated fat, but it’s loaded with 1,500 milligrams worth of sodium .
4 ounces of grilled sockeye salmon has about 30 grams of protein, naturally low in sodium, and contains just over 1 gram of saturated fat. Salmon and other fatty fish are also excellent sources of omega-3 fats , a type of fat that’s especially good for the heart.
A cup of cooked lentils provides about 18 grams of protein and 15 grams of fiber , and it has virtually no saturated fat or sodium.

person making a workout shake including protein powder

What about protein powders?

Research on protein and health.

Available evidence indicates that it’s the source of protein (or, the protein “package”), rather than the amount of protein, that likely makes a difference for our health. You can explore the research related to each disease in the tabs below, but here’s the evidence-based takeaway: eating healthy protein sources like beans, nuts, fish, or poultry in place of red meat and processed meat can lower the risk of several diseases and premature death.

Research conducted at the Harvard Chan School of Public Health has found that eating even small amounts of red meat—especially processed red meat—on a regular basis is linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke , and the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease or any other cause. [4-6] Conversely, replacing red and processed red meat with healthy protein sources such as beans, soy foods, nuts, fish, or poultry seems to reduce these risks. One of the reasons why plant sources of protein are related to lower risk of cardiovascular disease compared to protein from red meat and dairy is because of the different types of fat in these protein packages. Plant-based protein sources are more unsaturated, which lowers LDL cholesterol—an established risk factor for heart disease. Also, plant sources contain no cholesterol . Other factors are likely to contribute to the lower risk, but this is a key factor.

Processed red meat was even more strongly linked to dying from cardiovascular disease—and in smaller amounts: every additional 1.5 ounce serving of processed red meat consumed each day (equivalent to one hot dog or two strips of bacon) was linked to a 20% increase in the risk of cardiovascular disease death.
Cutting back on red meat could save lives: the researchers estimated that if all the men and women in the study had reduced their total red and processed red meat intake to less than half a serving a day, one in ten cardiovascular disease deaths would have been prevented.
In another study of 43,000 men that looked at both amount and sources of protein found that intake of total protein was minimally associated with heart disease risk, but intake of protein from red meat was associated with higher risk. [7]
The study included data from 36 randomized controlled trials involving 1,803 participants. The researchers compared people who ate diets with red meat with people who ate more of other types of foods (i.e. chicken, fish, carbohydrates, or plant proteins such as legumes, soy, or nuts), looking at blood concentrations of cholesterol, triglycerides, lipoproteins, and blood pressure—all risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Researchers found that when diets with red meat were compared with all other types of diets combined, there were no significant differences in total cholesterol, lipoproteins, or blood pressure, although diets higher in red meat did lead to higher triglyceride concentrations than the comparison diets.
However, researchers found that diets higher in high-quality plant protein sources such as legumes, soy, and nuts resulted in lower levels of both total and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol compared to diets with red meat.

In terms of the amount of protein consumed, there’s evidence that eating a relatively high-protein diet may be beneficial for the heart, as long as the protein comes from a healthy source.

A 20-year prospective study of over 80,000 women found that those who ate low-carbohydrate diets that were high in plant-based sources of fat and protein had a 30%lower risk of heart disease compared with women who ate high-carbohydrate, low-fat diets. [8] However, eating a low-carbohydrate diet high in animal fat or protein did not offer such protection.
Further evidence of the heart benefits of eating healthy protein in place of carbohydrate comes from a randomized trial known as the Optimal Macronutrient Intake Trial for Heart Health (OmniHeart). A healthy diet that replaced some carbohydrate with healthy protein (or healthy fat) did a better job of lowering blood pressure and harmful low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol than a higher carbohydrate diet. [9]
Similarly, the “EcoAtkins” weight loss trial compared a low-fat, high -carbohydrate, vegetarian diet to a low-carbohydrate vegan diet that was high in vegetable protein and fat. Though weight loss was similar on the two diets, study participants on the high protein diet saw improvements in blood lipids and blood pressure. [10]
Of course, occasionally a study will generate headlines because it found the opposite result. For example, one study of Swedish women who ate low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets had higher rates of cardiovascular disease and death than those who ate lower-protein, higher-carbohydrate diets. [11] But the study, which assessed the women’s diets only once and then followed them for 15 years, did not look at what types of carbohydrates or what sources of protein these women ate. That was important because most of the women’s protein came from animal sources.

Again, the source of protein matters more than protein quantity when it comes to diabetes risk. Eating more red meat predicts a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, while consuming nuts, legumes, and poultry is related to lower risk.

A 2011 study found that people who ate diets high in red meat, especially processed red meat, had a higher risk of type 2 diabetes than those who rarely ate red or processed meat. [12] For each additional serving a day of red meat or processed red meat that study participants ate, their risk of diabetes rose 12% and 32%, respectively. Investigators also found that replacing a serving of red meat with one serving of nuts, low-fat dairy products, or whole grains each day was associated with an estimated 16% to 35% lower risk of type 2 diabetes.
A related study also found that people who started eating more red meat than usual were had a 50% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes during the next four years, and researchers also found that those who reduced red meat consumption had a 14% lower risk of type 2 diabetes over a 10-year follow-up period. [13]
How meat is cooked may also affect type 2 diabetes risk . In a study that tracked the health of over 289,000 men and women, researchers found that individuals who most frequently ate red meats and chicken cooked at high temperatures were 1.5 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, compared to those who ate the least. There was also an increased risk of weight gain and developing obesity in the frequent users of high-temperature cooking methods, which may have contributed to the development of diabetes. Of note, this research demonstrated that cooking methods might contribute to diabetes risk beyond the effects of meat consumption alone. [14] Learn more about this study .
More evidence that the source of protein matters comes from a 20-year study that looked at the relationship between low-carbohydrate diets and type 2 diabetes in women. Low-carbohydrate diets that were high in vegetable sources of fat and protein were associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. [15] But low-carbohydrate diets that were high in animal sources of protein or fat did not show this benefit.
For type 1 diabetes (formerly called juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes), proteins found in cow’s milk have been implicated in the development of the disease in babies with a predisposition to the disease, but research remains inconclusive. [16,17]

When it comes to cancer, once again, the source of protein seems to matter more than quantity.

In the Nurse’s Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, every additional serving per day of red meat or processed red meat was associated with a 10% and 16% higher risk of cancer death, respectively. [5]
Conclusions were primarily based on the evidence for colorectal cancer . Data also showed positive associations between processed meat consumption and stomach cancer , and between red meat consumption and pancreatic and prostate cancer .
A 2014 study also found a link between high consumption of red meat during adolescence and premenopausal breast cancer, while higher intakes of poultry, nuts, and legumes were associated with lower risk. Using data on the health of 89,000 women (aged 24 to 43) followed over a 20-year period, researchers found a 22% higher risk of breast cancer in those who ate 1.5 servings of red meat per day while in high school, compared to those who only had one serving per week. Each additional daily serving of red meat seemed to increase the risk of breast cancer by another 13%. [19]
How meat is cooked may also have implications for cancer risk. High-temperature grilling creates potentially cancer-causing compounds in meat, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heterocyclic amines. Learn about tips for healthy grilling.
In 2016, researchers reviewed protein intakes of more than 131,000 women and men from the Nurses’ Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study. After tracking their diets for up to 32 years, the authors found that a higher intake of red meat, especially processed versions (sausage, bacon, hot dogs, salami), was linked to a modestly higher risk of death, while a higher protein intake from plant foods carried a lower risk. [2] Learn more about this study .
Digesting protein releases acids into the bloodstream, which the body usually neutralizes with calcium and other buffering agents. As a result, early research theorized that eating lots of protein requires a lot more calcium – which may be pulled from bone. A 2009 systematic review found that this doesn’t appear to happen. [20]

The same healthy protein foods that are good choices for disease prevention may also help with weight control. Again, it’s the source of protein that matters.

Those who ate more red and processed meat over the course of the study gained more weight, about one extra pound every four years, while those who ate more nuts over the course of the study gained less weight, about a half pound less every four years.
A subsequent detailed analysis of this cohort also found that eating red meat, chicken with skin, and regular cheese was associated with greater weight gain. Yogurt, peanut butter, walnuts and other nuts, chicken without skin, low-fat cheese, and seafood was associated with less weight gain. [22]
Another study showed that eating around one daily serving of beans, chickpeas , lentils or peas can increase fullness, which may lead to better weight management and weight loss. [23]

There’s no need to go overboard on protein. Though some studies show benefits of high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets in the short term (such as the paleo diet ), avoiding fruits and whole grains means missing out on healthful fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other phytonutrients.

Specific proteins in food and the environment are involved in food allergies, which are overreactions of the immune system (take gluten and celiac disease , for example).
Medical journals are also full of reports linking allergic responses to specific protein sources with a variety of conditions (breathing problems, chronic digestive issues, etc.). Eggs, fish, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, and soybeans cause allergic reactions in some people.
Individuals diagnosed with certain diseases (such as kidney and liver disease) need to monitor their protein intake according to their physician’s guidelines.
You may have also heard that the use of antibiotics in the production of animal-based foods has contributed to the emergence of “superbugs,” or strains of bacteria resistant to currently available antibiotics. In 2016, the FDA announced a voluntary program to limit the routine use of antibiotics in food production (such as giving antibiotics to healthy animals to help them grow faster). [24] As a consumer, you may want to find products “raised without antibiotics” if you plan on eating meat. Some companies feature this language on the packaging, others don’t.

New research highlight: Red meat and diabetes risk

Protein foods and the planet.

Icon of a globe with a fork and spoon on the sides; representing eating sustainably for the planet's health

To give you an idea, this “scorecard” from the World Resources Institute illustrates the differing GHG emissions per gram of protein from both animal and plant-based protein foods. [25] Making just one pound (454 grams) of lamb generates five times more GHGs than making a pound of chicken and around 30 times more than making a pound of lentils. [26] In the U.S. alone, beef accounts for 36% of all food-related GHG emissions. [27] Beyond emissions, it’s also important to note that food production places an enormous demand upon our natural resources, as agriculture is a major contributor to deforestation, species extinction, and freshwater depletion and contamination.

Bottom Line

Protein is a key part of any diet. The average person needs about 7 grams of protein every day for every 20 pounds of body weight. Because protein is found in an abundance of foods, many people can easily meet this goal. However, not all protein “packages” are created equal. Because foods contain a lot more than protein, it’s important to pay attention to what else is coming with it. That’s why the Healthy Eating Plate encourages choosing healthy protein foods.

Building off this general guidance, here are some additional details and tips for shaping your diet with the best protein choices:

Legumes: lentils , beans (adzuki, black, fava, chickpeas /garbanzo, kidney, lima, mung, pinto etc.), peas (green, snow, snap, split, etc.), edamame/soybeans (and products made from soy : tofu, tempeh, etc.), peanuts.
Nuts and Seeds: almonds , pistachios, cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, hemp seeds, squash and pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, flax seeds, sesame seeds, chia seeds .
Whole Grains: kamut, teff, wheat, quinoa , rice , wild rice, millet, oats , buckwheat,
Other: while many vegetables and fruits contain some level of protein, it’s generally in smaller amounts than the other plant-based foods. Some examples with higher protein quantities include corn, broccoli, asparagus, brussels sprouts , and artichokes.

Prioritize hearty and savory plant-based proteins

Prioritize hearty and savory plant-based preparations

Generally, poultry (chicken, turkey, duck) and a variety of seafood ( fish , crustaceans, mollusks) are your best bet. Eggs can be a good choice, too.
If you enjoy dairy foods , it’s best to do so in moderation (think closer to 1-2 servings a day; and incorporating yogurt is probably a better choice than getting all your servings from milk or cheese ).
Red meat —which includes unprocessed beef, pork, lamb, veal, mutton, and goat meat—should be consumed on a more limited basis. If you enjoy red meat, consider eating it in small amounts or only on special occasions.
Processed meats , such as bacon, hot dogs, sausages, and cold cuts should be avoided. Although these products are often made from red meats, processed meats also include items like turkey bacon, chicken sausage, and deli-sliced chicken and ham. (Processed meat refers to any meat that has been “transformed through salting, curing, fermentation, smoking, or other processes to enhance flavor or improve preservation.” [18])

Looking to reduce red and processed meats, but unsure where to start? Here are a few approaches to cutting-back while keeping your meals satiating and flavorful. Simply find your “starting point” and move forward with the strategies that work for you:

Eat a little less red meat, any way you can

Swap out red meat for healthier meats

Consume less meat, enjoy more variety

Test your protein knowledge.

Ready to see how much you know about protein and healthy protein foods? Try this 10 question quiz to find out:

National Academies of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrate, Fiber, Fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein, and Amino Acids (Macronutrients) .
Song M, Fung TT, Hu FB, Willett WC, Longo VD, Chan AT, Giovannucci EL. Association of animal and plant protein intake with all-cause and cause-specific mortality. JAMA internal medicine . 2016 Oct 1;176(10):1453-63.
Fehrenbach KS, Righter AC, Santo RE. A critical examination of the available data sources for estimating meat and protein consumption in the USA. Public health nutrition . 2016 Jun;19(8):1358-67.
Bernstein AM, Sun Q, Hu FB, Stampfer MJ, Manson JE, Willett WC. Major dietary protein sources and risk of coronary heart disease in women. Circulation . 2010 Aug 31;122(9):876-83.
Pan A, Sun Q, Bernstein AM, Schulze MB, Manson JE, Stampfer MJ, Willett WC, Hu FB. Red meat consumption and mortality: results from 2 prospective cohort studies. Archives of internal medicine . 2012 Apr 9;172(7):555-63.
Bernstein AM, Pan A, Rexrode KM, Stampfer M, Hu FB, Mozaffarian D, Willett WC. Dietary protein sources and the risk of stroke in men and women. Stroke . 2011 Jan 1:STROKEAHA-111.
Preis SR, Stampfer MJ, Spiegelman D, Willett WC, Rimm EB. Dietary protein and risk of ischemic heart disease in middle-aged men–. The American journal of clinical nutrition . 2010 Sep 29;92(5):1265-72.
Halton TL, Willett WC, Liu S, Manson JE, Albert CM, Rexrode K, Hu FB. Low-carbohydrate-diet score and the risk of coronary heart disease in women. New England Journal of Medicine . 2006 Nov 9;355(19):1991-2002.
Appel LJ, Sacks FM, Carey VJ, Obarzanek E, Swain JF, Miller ER, Conlin PR, Erlinger TP, Rosner BA, Laranjo NM, Charleston J. Effects of protein, monounsaturated fat, and carbohydrate intake on blood pressure and serum lipids: results of the OmniHeart randomized trial. JAMA . 2005 Nov 16;294(19):2455-64.
Jenkins DJ, Wong JM, Kendall CW, Esfahani A, Ng VW, Leong TC, Faulkner DA, Vidgen E, Greaves KA, Paul G, Singer W. The effect of a plant-based low-carbohydrate (“Eco-Atkins”) diet on body weight and blood lipid concentrations in hyperlipidemic subjects. Archives of internal medicine . 2009 Jun 8;169(11):1046-54.
Lagiou P, Sandin S, Lof M, Trichopoulos D, Adami HO, Weiderpass E. Low carbohydrate-high protein diet and incidence of cardiovascular diseases in Swedish women: prospective cohort study. BMJ . 2012 Jun 26;344:e4026.
Pan A, Sun Q, Bernstein AM, Schulze MB, Manson JE, Willett WC, Hu FB. Red meat consumption and risk of type 2 diabetes: 3 cohorts of US adults and an updated meta-analysis–. The American journal of clinical nutrition . 2011 Aug 10;94(4):1088-96.
Pan A, Sun Q, Bernstein AM, Manson JE, Willett WC, Hu FB. Changes in red meat consumption and subsequent risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus: three cohorts of US men and women. JAMA internal medicine . 2013 Jul 22;173(14):1328-35.
Pan A, Sun Q, Bernstein AM, Manson JE, Willett WC, Hu FB. Changes in red meat consumption and subsequent risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus: three cohorts of US men and women. JAMA internal medicine . 2013 Jul 22;173(14):1328-35.
Halton TL, Liu S, Manson JE, Hu FB. Low-carbohydrate-diet score and risk of type 2 diabetes in women–. The American journal of clinical nutrition . 2008 Feb 1;87(2):339-46.
Åkerblom HK, Vaarala O, Hyöty H, Ilonen J, Knip M. Environmental factors in the etiology of type 1 diabetes. American journal of medical genetics . 2002 May 30;115(1):18-29.
Vaarala O, Ilonen J, Ruohtula T, Pesola J, Virtanen SM, Härkönen T, Koski M, Kallioinen H, Tossavainen O, Poussa T, Järvenpää AL. Removal of bovine insulin from cow’s milk formula and early initiation of beta-cell autoimmunity in the FINDIA pilot study. Archives of pediatrics & adolescent medicine . 2012 Jul 1;166(7):608-14.
Bouvard V, Loomis D, Guyton KZ, Grosse Y, El Ghissassi F, Benbrahim-Tallaa L, Guha N, Mattock H, Straif K. Carcinogenicity of consumption of red and processed meat. The Lancet Oncology . 2015 Dec 1;16(16):1599-600.
Farvid MS, Cho E, Chen WY, Eliassen AH, Willett WC. Adolescent meat intake and breast cancer risk. International journal of cancer . 2015 Apr 15;136(8):1909-20.
Darling AL, Millward DJ, Torgerson DJ, Hewitt CE, Lanham-New SA. Dietary protein and bone health: a systematic review and meta-analysis–. The American journal of clinical nutrition . 2009 Nov 4;90(6):1674-92.
Mozaffarian D, Hao T, Rimm EB, Willett WC, Hu FB. Changes in diet and lifestyle and long-term weight gain in women and men. New England Journal of Medicine . 2011 Jun 23;364(25):2392-404.
Smith JD, Hou T, Ludwig DS, Rimm EB, Willett W, Hu FB, Mozaffarian D. Changes in intake of protein foods, carbohydrate amount and quality, and long-term weight change: results from 3 prospective cohorts–. The American journal of clinical nutrition . 2015 Apr 8;101(6):1216-24.
Li SS, Kendall CW, de Souza RJ, Jayalath VH, Cozma AI, Ha V, Mirrahimi A, Chiavaroli L, Augustin LS, Blanco Mejia S, Leiter LA. Dietary pulses, satiety and food intake: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of acute feeding trials. Obesity . 2014 Aug;22(8):1773-80.
Food and Drug Administration. FDA’s Strategy on Antimicrobial Resistance – Questions and Answers. https://www.fda.gov/animalveterinary/guidancecomplianceenforcement/guidanceforindustry/ucm216939.htm . Accessed on 11/6/2018.
World Resources Institute. Protein Scorecard. https://www.wri.org/resources/data-visualizations/protein-scorecard . Accessed on 11/6/2018.
Culinary Institute of America and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Menus of Change: 2016 Annual Report. http://www.menusofchange.org/
Heller MC, Keoleian GA. Greenhouse gas emission estimates of US dietary choices and food loss. Journal of Industrial Ecology . 2015 Jun;19(3):391-401.
Guasch-Ferré M, Satija A, Blondin S, Janiszewski M, Emlen E, O’Connor L, Campbell W, Hu F, Willett W, Stampfer M. Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials of Red Meat Consumption in Comparison With Various Comparison Diets on Cardiovascular Risk Factors. Circulation . 2019 Apr 1;139(15):1828-45. *Disclosures: Dr. Hu has received research support from the California Walnut Commission. Dr. Campbell reported receiving research support from the National Institutes of Health (T32 Fellowship for Lauren O’Connor), the American Egg Board – The Egg Nutrition Center, The Beef Checkoff Program, The National Dairy Council, The Pork Checkoff Program, and the Barilla Group. Dr. Campbell also reported serving on the 2015 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. Dr. Satija is an employee of Analysis Group, Inc. The other authors declare no conflicts.

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Can Nutmeg Really Improve Your Blood Pressure? Here's What the Research Says

Nutmeg ( Myristica fragrans ) is a familiar, fragrant holiday spice available to purchase both ground and whole. It is also used in cosmetics and sold as nutmeg butter and essential oil.

Despite its name, nutmeg is not a nut. The spice is produced by grinding the seed of the Myristica fragrans , a native Indonesian evergreen tree.

Traditionally, nutmeg has been used in Ayurvedic (traditional Indian) , traditional Chinese, and traditional Thai medicines due to its strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

It has been studied for its use as a remedy for pain, diarrhea , and other gastrointestinal problems. However, because most of nutmeg's studies have been performed in test tubes and with animals, there is not enough evidence to predict its effects on these conditions in humans.

Learn more about the health benefits of nutmeg, dosage, potential toxicity, and more.

Getty Images / oksix

Nutmeg Facts

Active ingredient(s) : Nutmeg
Alternate name(s) : Myristica fragrans
Legal status: Nutmeg is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) as a food ingredient by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Suggested dose : There is no established dose; normal use in cooking is considered safe.
Safety considerations : High doses (e.g., a spoonful or more) of nutmeg can cause anticholinergic symptoms (urinary retention, dry mouth, seizure).

Benefits of Nutmeg

Besides its use as a flavorful spice, nutmeg is traditionally thought to have many health and medicinal benefits. However, human clinical trials are limited, and more research is needed to determine its effects.

May Help With Pain

Using nutmeg oil externally on the body may help reduce joint pain. However, the research is very limited.

One randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial examined the clinical effects of topical nutmeg extract in people with painful diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage due to diabetes).

Seventy-four participants used either nutmeg extract, mace oil, nutmeg oil, coconut oil, methyl salicylate, menthol, or a placebo (an intentionally ineffective treatment given to people in a control group).

After four weeks, the nutmeg group showed improvement in pain, mood scores, and daily functions. However, the results were not statistically significant between the nutmeg and placebo groups. This study was small and short term; therefore, more research is needed to better evaluate its effects.

Rich in Antioxidants

Antioxidants can scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Chronic oxidative stress is associated with an increased risk of disease.

Nutmeg contains antioxidants, including:

Carotenoids ( beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin)
Phenolic compounds

Research done in test tubes has validated the antioxidant effects of nutmeg extract. However, more studies in humans are needed to determine the effects of these antioxidants.

Contains Nutrients Involved in Regulating Blood Pressure

Nutmeg contains micronutrients calcium and magnesium , which are important in regulating blood pressure.

Human research on the direct effect of nutmeg ingestion and blood pressure is lacking. It is highly unlikely that simply consuming nutmeg will impact your blood pressure, rather, your overall dietary patterns are more important.

However, using spices like nutmeg to flavor dishes and reduce sodium intake may contribute to improvements in blood pressure, in addition to other measures.

May Improve Libido

Supplemental nutmeg extracts enhanced libido (sex drive) in male rats.

Male rats were given 50% ethanol nutmeg extract in varying doses: 100, 250, and 500 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of weight (mg/kg) for seven days. In the rats, 500 mg/kg produced a significant change in sexual activity.

Researchers suggest this is due to nutmeg extract's effects on the central nervous system.

Unfortunately, animal studies do not always translate to human results. Studies involving humans are needed to determine the safety and effectiveness of using nutmeg for libido.

Side Effects of Nutmeg

Taking large amounts of nutmeg can cause toxic side effects, such as:

Tachycardia (increased heartbeat)
Nausea and vomiting
Hallucinations

If you believe you are experiencing nutmeg intoxication, get medical help as soon as possible.

Precautions

Do not consume nutmeg in large quantities.

Supplemental use of nutmeg in amounts higher than what is found in foods is not recommended for children or pregnant or breastfeeding people.

Recreational use of nutmeg to get "high" is very dangerous. Ingesting large amounts of nutmeg can achieve a high and lead to adverse effects, including nutmeg intoxication.

Dosage: How Much Nutmeg Should I Take?

Consuming nutmeg in normal amounts, such as those found in food, is safe.

There isn't enough evidence to suggest a safe dosage of nutmeg. It is also unclear how much you can apply safely to the skin.

What Happens If I Consume Too Much Nutmeg?

Nutmeg contains a substance called myristicin , a natural organic compound present in the essential oil of nutmeg.

Myristicin may be responsible for the psychotic effects of nutmeg. Some reports suggest toxic effects from ingesting 1–2 teaspoons of nutmeg in one sitting.

To prevent these effects, total consumption of less than 10 grams per sitting (slightly under 1.5 tablespoons of ground nutmeg) has also been suggested.

Interactions

Nutmeg may interact with certain medications that are broken down by your liver and those that increase a chemical called acetylcholine. This can impact how your medications work.

Consult with your healthcare provider before taking nutmeg, especially if you also take prescription medications.

How to Store Nutmeg

Store nutmeg (both whole and ground) in a cool, dry place and avoid exposure to direct heat and moisture. Whole nutmeg can be grated into or onto dishes and typically produces a superior flavor than store-bought ground nutmeg. Store out of the reach of children.

Sources & What to Look For

You can purchase ground nutmeg in any grocery store. You can find it in the spice section, where there may be organic products available as well.

If you are considering using another form of nutmeg, such as nutmeg extract, oil, or butter, consult a registered dietitian for individualized guidance.

Nutmeg is a traditional spice used in sweet and savory dishes. It has an impressive nutritional profile.

Limited animal studies suggest the powerful plant compounds are responsible for nutmeg's potential health benefits. However, more human research is needed to support these claims and to test the safety, effectiveness, and dosage of nutmeg consumption.

While there is no harm in using nutmeg in cooking, high doses may have adverse effects. Start by using nutmeg in quantities suggested in recipes. If you'd like to explore its potential medicinal benefits, like topical use, talk to your healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Nutmeg has a sweet and savory flavor. It is commonly used in spice blends like pumpkin pie spice and garam masala. It is also used in recipes for baked goods, sauces, meats, vegetables, and holiday beverages like eggnog.

Consuming nutmeg in usual quantities is safe. Recipes usually recommend quantities of about one-quarter teaspoon. Consuming more than a teaspoon in one sitting can cause adverse effects.

Abourashed EA, El-Alfy AT. Chemical diversity and pharmacological significance of the secondary metabolites of nutmeg ( Myristica fragrans Houtt.) . Phytochem Rev. 2016;15(6):1035-1056. doi:10.1007/s11101-016-9469-x

Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; 2006-. Nutmeg .

Motilal S, Maharaj RG. Nutmeg extracts for painful diabetic neuropathy: a randomized, double-blind, controlled study . J Altern Complement Med . 2013;19(4):347-452. doi:10.1089/acm.2012.0016

Liguori I, Russo G, Curcio F, et al. Oxidative stress, aging, and diseases . Clin Interv Aging. 2018;13:757-772. doi:10.2147/CIA.S158513.

Gupta AD, Bansal VK, Babu V, Maithil N. Chemistry, antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of nutmeg ( Myristica fragrans Houtt) . Journal of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology. 2013;11(1):25-31.

Champasuri S, Itharat A. Bioactivities of ethanolic extracts of three parts (wood, nutmeg and mace) from Myristica fragrans Houtt. J Med Assoc Thai. 2016;99(Suppl 4):S124-30.

Chiu HF, Venkatakrishnan K, Golovinskaia O, Wang CK. Impact of micronutrients on hypertension: evidence from clinical trials with a special focus on meta-analysis . Nutrients. 2021;13(2):588. doi:10.3390/nu13020588.

Tajuddin, Ahmad S, Latif A, et al. An experimental study of sexual function improving effect of Myristica fragrans Houtt. (nutmeg) . BMC Complement Altern Med. 2005;5:16. doi:10.1186/1472-6882-5-16

Ehrenpreis JE, DesLauriers C, Lank P, et al. Nutmeg poisonings: a retrospective review of 10 years experience from the Illinois Poison Center, 2001-2011 . J Med Toxicol . 2014;10(2):148-151. doi:10.1007/s13181-013-0379-7.

American College of Emergency Physicians. Tiktok nutmeg challenge leads to intoxication.

PubChem. Myristicin .

Zhipeng C, Xia W, Zhang W, et al. Hepatotoxicity of nutmeg: a pilot study based on metabolomics . Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. 2020 (131):110780. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110780.

Mukherjee PK, Kumar V, Houghton PJ. Screening of Indian medicinal plants for acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity . Phytother Res . 2007;21(12):1142-1145. doi:10.1002/ptr.2224

By Barbie Cervoni, RD Cervoni is a New York-based registered dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist.

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The Oral Health Topics section on ADA.org is intended to provide dentists with clinically relevant, evidence-based science behind the issues that may affect their patients and their practice. Refer to the Oral Health Topics for current scientific reviews of subjects that relate to oral health, from amalgam separators and antibiotic prophylaxis to xerostomia and X-rays.

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A 4-ounce broiled sirloin steak is a great source of protein—about 33 grams worth. But it also delivers about 5 grams of saturated fat. A 4-ounce ham steak with 22 grams of protein has only 1.6 grams of saturated fat, but it's loaded with 1,500 milligrams worth of sodium. 4 ounces of grilled sockeye salmon has about 30 grams of protein ...
ASCEND for Better Health
Agricultural Science Center of Excellence for Nutrition and Diet (ASCEND) for Better Health. A virtual center that brings together scientists, partner organizations, and communities to deliver science-based solutions that promote and elevate food and nutrition security for all Americans. On September 28th, USDA announced the launch of the first ...
Can Nutmeg Really Improve Your Blood Pressure?
Nutmeg contains micronutrients calcium and magnesium, which are important in regulating blood pressure. Human research on the direct effect of nutmeg ingestion and blood pressure is lacking. It is highly unlikely that simply consuming nutmeg will impact your blood pressure, rather, your overall dietary patterns are more important.
NIH Research Matters
Study defines major genetic form of Alzheimer's disease. May 14, 2024 — In a study of people primarily of European descent, those with two copies of a certain gene, APOE4, predictably began to develop the underlying abnormalities of Alzheimer's disease as early as age 55.
Oral Health Topics
Featured oral health topics. Antibiotic prophylaxis. Infection control and sterilization. Treating Acute Dental Pain. Occupational Safety. Pregnancy. Whitening. The ADA Library & Archives also provides dental and oral health research and resources for members. Definitions, explanations and information about various oral health terms and dental ...

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