The Unit consists of the Lora N. Thomas Metabolism Ward with satellite research
sites in Cedar Rapids and Davenport, the Pediatric Nutrition Laboratory,
a Data Management Office and an Administrative Office.
Research
Pediatric nutrition research has been active at the University of Iowa
since 1917. The research of the Unit is mainly focused on nutrition and
growth of term and preterm infants. Particular attention is paid to iron
in studies concerning iron absorption by normal infants, iron nutrition
of breast-fed infants and the role of iron in anemia of prematurity. Another
focus of research has been protein, where a series of studies have addressed
the protein requirements of term as well as premature infants, the ability
of isolated soy protein to meet the protein needs of normal infants, and
the beneficial effects of higher protein intakes on the anemia of prematurity.
The physical growth of infants and the body composition of the fetus,
the infant and the child have been investigated. Cow milk-provoked intestinal
blood loss has been studied thoroughly and the significance of the potential
renal solute load in relation to water balance have been addressed repeatedly.
The metabolism of zinc, the absorption and excretion of fluoride, as well
as the metabolism of and the requirements for carnitine in infants and
children have been investigated. Finally, the exploration of possible
long-term effects of dietary influences during infancy has been approached
in a ground-breaking follow-up study of young adults who as infants had
been fed soy formulas or milk-based formulas as participants in studies
conducted by the Fomon Unit.
Clinical Trials
One of the missions of the Unit is to collaborate with industry in nutritional
and other studies. The Unit is well-equipped and has many years of experience
in conducting clinical trials.
Teaching
The Unit has a strong commitment to the teaching of nutrition. The Unit
offers a week-long Intensive Course in Pediatric Nutrition twice each
year to physicians, nutritionists, dietitians and nurses.
Postdoctoral Training
A 2-year program is offered for those who desire nutrition research training.
It is possible to combine nutrition training with the 3-year programs
in gastroenterology or neonatology. The primary emphasis of the traineeship
is to develop expertise in experimental design for human nutrition investigation
and in protocol preparation for such studies.
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