Research

Research Objectives

The CNRC applies its broad-based multidisciplinary expertise to:

  • Expand knowledge of physiological functions and mechanisms of action of bioactive nutrients and functional foods;
  • Evaluate human health benefits of bioactive foods and nutrients, alone or in combination with other lifestyle interventions including physical activity and exercise;
  • Determine the therapeutic potential of bioactive nutrients, taken alone or as adjuncts to drug therapy;
  • Develop portfolios of evidence to substantiate health claims for functional foods and nutraceuticals;
  • Foster a national framework of collaboration in clinical nutrition research;
  • Translate clinical nutrition research into community practice;
  • Promote cross-institutional training and exchange of expertise.

The CNRC undertakes clinical research in these fields to address the prevention and management of risk factors for chronic disease, including but not limited to obesity/metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases, cognitive decline and depression.

The CNRC is developing and evaluating approaches to optimize physical and mental fitness (especially under conditions of duress and/or fatigue), sports performance and recovery from injury.

The CNRC identifies new bioactives, treatments and strategies with the potential to deliver outcomes and conducts human intervention trials to quantify potential benefits.

The CNRC is committed to research translation. Its key members have significant experience in regulatory policy development and working with industry to achieve product registrations and patents.

Our goal is to create a critical mass of clinical nutrition research expertise and attract government and private sector stakeholders to secure the development of major national research initiatives, e.g. a Cooperative Research Centre for Evidence Based Health foods ans Supplements.