Nutrition Service and Body Composition Lab

The GCRC nutrition service is led by Research Nutritionist Susan Raatz, Ph.D., R.D. The current staffing includes research dietitians, metabolic cooks, and student food service workers. The GCRC nutrition service is self-contained and provides the clinical nutrition and food services necessary for clinical investigation.

Services available include the following:

Education and Research Development

• Consultation on initial study design and writing of nutrition component of scientific paper

• Identification of metabolic and clinical resources and assistance with grant budget development

• Continual evaluation of protocols as research team member

• Development of nutrition data collection forms and preparation of data for inclusion in investigator's database

• Education of graduate and undergraduate students, investigators and other GCRC team members

Research Measurements: Body Composition Laboratory

The body composition laboratory is happy to assist you with the following:

Anthropometric Measurements

• Skinfold measurements

• Circumference Measurements

Dual X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA)

• Whole Body

• Lumbar Spine

• Femur/Dual Femur

Indirect Calorimetry

Research Measurements: Nutrition Research Diets

• Metabolic and Controlled Nutrient Diets

• Regular Diets, Therapeutic, and Pediatric Diets

• Subject Screening

• Research Diet Instructions

Research Measurements: Nutrient Intake Assessment

Measurement of nutrient intake using:

• Food Records

• Food Diary

• 24-hour recall

• Food Frequency Questionnaires

Quantification of nutrient intake from regular and research meals using comprehensive and specialized computer software programs.

Clinical Services to Patients:

• Screening for Nutrition Risk

• Nutritional Assessment and Documentation

• Nutrition Care Planning and Implementation

• Patient Education Materials

• Nutrient Intake Analysis (calorie and protein counts)