Master of Science

June 7, 2024

The Association Between Eating Competence and Daily Hassles and Uplifts of Eating Location in Undergraduate University Students

The study sought to investigate the association between the daily hassles and uplifts related to eating location and eating competence (EC), and whether socio-demographics impact this association. Using the Daily Hassles and Uplifts Scale, the Satter Eating Competence Inventory (ecSI 2.0tm), and multivariate regression, associations between the hassles and uplifts of some of three eating…

Determinants of Indigenous Diet Quality and Their Association With Inflammation and Biological Age in the NHLBI Strong Heart Family Study

This thesis analyzed dietary and health marker data from Indigenous tribes in the NHLBI Strong Heart Family Study to assess for associations between diet quality, inflammation, and biological age. The thesis also reviewed the historical and social determinants of Indigenous diet quality and identified the concept of Indigenous Food Sovereignty as a direction for future…

Nutrient Drug Interaction Probability Scale (NDIPS): A Creation and Validation Process

This thesis project involved the creation of a screening tool to assess the probability of drug-nutrient interactions. Additionally, a set of internal and external trials were set in place to validate the tool’s value and accuracy with the collaboration of practicing clinicians. The central aim of the project was to develop a personalized healthcare model…

Exploring the Relationship between Dietary Supplement Use and Serum Biomarkers Among Postmenopausal Women in a Controlled Feeding Study

Utilized data from a controlled feeding study conducted in the Seattle area among postmenopausal women of the Women’s Health Initiative, a large cohort study, in order to assess the association between commonly used dietary supplements and serum biomarkers. Self report is a common source of bias in nutrition research, and this project helps to build…

June 5, 2024

Recommendations for Seattle Fresh Bucks: Produce Prescription Program Best Practices and Benefit Level Adjustments

Seattle Fresh Bucks is a produce assistance program serving over 12,000 households in the City of Seattle by providing them with a monthly $40 voucher to purchase fruits and vegetables at 30 local farmers markets, farm stands, independent grocers, and supermarkets. Operated by the City of Seattle Office of Sustainability and Environment and informed by…

Nutrition Policy and Food Service Guidelines Recommended for Adoption by Teen Feed

As a growing body of evidence demonstrates, food transcends beyond biological needs and interplays with behavioral, social, and mental concepts of whole-person health. Community-based organizations serving minoritized populations, like Seattle’s Teen Feed, are uniquely positioned to tailor nutritional programming to the needs of their client populations, informing nutrition practices and behaviors to support health across…

November 30, 2023

Using Non-linear, Machine Learning Methodology to Assess the Potential Metabolomic-Based Biomarkers of Total Fat and Percentage Fat Intake Using a Controlled Feeding Study

October 10, 2023

Nutrition Interventions in Pediatric Intestinal Failure from Short Bowel Syndrome: A Case Report

Intestinal failure from short bowel syndrome is a complex condition that impairs nutrient and fluid absorption. Without appropriate monitoring and treatment, it can result in significant morbidity, organ complications, decreased quality of life, and suppressed growth. Current evidence supports early total parenteral nutrition (TPN), enteral and oral feeds to reduce long-term TPN dependence, and medical…

Personalized Nutrition for Type 2 Diabetes in the Era of Continuous Glucose Monitors

Recent advancements in continuous glucose monitors have been beneficial in supporting diabetes medical nutrition therapy. These monitors provide clearer insights into post-prandial glucose response (PPGR) variability and relevant factors. Current research has shown that personalized nutrition plans are more effective in managing glycemic outcomes than generalized diets, especially when considering individual PPGR heterogeneity. Community Partners:…

Dietary Inflammatory Index Scores of the 3-Week Habitual Diet at a State Hospital

This project assessed the inflammatory potential of patients’ diets at a state hospital. The findings showed that their daily nutrient intake was inversely associated with a risk of depression and depressive symptoms, cognitive impairment, cardiovascular disease, and specific cancers.