The 2024 NHIRI/NSA Research Symposium, themed “Innovative Solutions for a Healthy Future,” brought together leading researchers, students, and professionals to explore groundbreaking advancements in nutrition and health research. Held in a vibrant atmosphere of collaboration and discovery, the event highlighted cutting-edge findings and practical solutions aimed at transforming public health outcomes.
Keynote Insights: The Role of Food Structure in Metabolic Health
This year’s keynote address was delivered by Professor Gary Frost, a world-renowned expert in Nutrition and Dietetics from Imperial College London. Professor Frost captivated the audience with his presentation, “Food Structure: The Forgotten Determinant of Metabolic Health.” He explored the crucial role that food composition plays in human metabolism, particularly the impact of dietary carbohydrates on the gastrointestinal tract. His leadership in major research initiatives such as the AGENTS network and the CoDiet project underscores his dedication to advancing nutritional science globally.
Spotlight on Outstanding Research
The Symposium celebrated the remarkable achievements of researchers across various career stages. Congratulations to the award winners:
- EMCR Judge’s Choice: Dr. Claire Pulker for her research on dietary risks in Australian chain food outlets.
- EMCR People’s Choice: Dr. Clare Whitton for her work on healthy children’s menus in Western Australian food outlets.
- HDR Judge’s Choice: Montana Dupuy for her study linking vitamin K1 intake with reduced atherosclerotic vascular disease in older women.
- HDR People’s Choice: Sharonna Mossenson for her audit of food environment initiatives in WA local government public health plans.
Diverse Research Presentations
The program featured a series of engaging presentations by NHIRI and NSA researchers. Highlights included:
- Dr. Simone Radavelli-Bagatini’s insights on how imaging results can motivate healthier eating habits.
- Prof. Gina Trapp’s unveiling of a national ‘Food Atlas’ to map food access across Australia.
- Dr. Carlos Toro-Huamanchumo’s integration of public health and clinical nutrition strategies from Peru.
In addition, a series of rapid-fire three-minute presentations showcased emerging research by Higher Degree Research (HDR) students and Early to Mid-Career Researchers (EMCRs). These concise and dynamic talks covered a range of topics, from the nutritional needs of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) mothers to the relationship between protein intake and frailty in older women.
A Platform for Collaboration and Networking
The Symposium concluded with an award ceremony recognising the outstanding contributions of participants, followed by a networking lunch. This closing session provided an invaluable opportunity for attendees to connect, exchange ideas, and foster future research collaborations.
The 2024 NHIRI/NSA Research Symposium provided a valuable platform for sharing innovative research and fostering collaboration in nutritional science and public health. We look forward to seeing how these insights contribute to shaping a healthier future.
Help us spread the word
