#United States #Bethesda #Nutrition Research #American Society for Nutrition #MAHA Strategy

Stronger Nutrition Research Needed

The American Society for Nutrition (ASN) has strongly echoed the need for improved support for nutrition research in light of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Strategy. As America faces a persistent crisis related to chronic diseases linked to diet, the ASN believes robust funding is essential to advance research efforts that will inform effective public health policies.

Overview of the MAHA Strategy

The MAHA Strategy outlines various crucial areas of inquiry that relate to nutrition, including but not limited to:

• - Food for Health
• - Dietary patterns and their connection to metabolic health
• - Dietary exposures and oral health
• - Cognitive development and chronic disease prevention across the lifespan
• - The role of food ingredients, sleep and nutrition, and physical fitness
• - The relationship between dietary supplements and insulin resistance

However, ASN expresses concern that the strategy lacks adequate resources necessary to achieve these ambitious goals. In order to combat the growing epidemic of diet-related illnesses, a substantial investment in rigorous, high-quality nutrition research is indispensable.

Call for Funding & Support

ASN is urging significant federal investment through organizations such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Nutrition Research, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Currently, there are fears that proposed budget cuts may hinder the progress of these agencies, further complicating the implementation of the MAHA Strategy. Secure and predictable funding is paramount to enable these crucial agencies to generate the necessary research outcomes that will ultimately enhance public health.

ASN underscores that the greatest value derived from federal investments occurs when nutrition research evidence translates into actionable practice. They advocate that the administration actively employs rigorous nutritional studies to formulate and shape effective public policies that address nutrition.

Mechanisms for Success

To maximize the impact of federal nutrition research, ASN highlights the necessity of establishing a strong coordinating body like the Interagency Committee on Human Nutrition Research. Such collaborations can ensure that diverse federal nutrition research efforts align effectively towards common goals.

Moreover, ASN calls for the development of clear, evidence-based strategies that delineate how the objectives of the MAHA Strategy will be accomplished. The establishment of an actionable plan is pivotal to instigate tangible improvements in the health of the American populace.

Conclusion

In summary, ASN's fervent plea for enhanced federal support signals the urgent need for nutrition research funding. As chronic diseases linked to poor diet continue to rise in the U.S., strategic, evidence-based solutions supported by funding could pave the way for healthier outcomes nationwide. The call to action urges Congress and federal agencies to look beyond short-term budgets and recognize the long-term benefits of investment in nutritional health.

About ASN
The American Society for Nutrition was founded in 1928 and stands as a leading organization for nutrition researchers and clinicians globally. The society is committed to advancing nutrition knowledge through research, education, and collaboration with researchers, clinicians, and industry leaders. ASN also publishes several peer-reviewed journals, further contributing to the field of nutrition science. For more information about ASN and its initiatives, visit www.nutrition.org.