Research of the Nutrition and Disease Group
We conduct observational epidemiological studies, experimental studies in individuals at (high-)risk or with (preclinical) disease, clinically oriented research and meta-analyses.
Human observational and experimental studies are used to study the role of healthy and sustainable nutrition, genetic susceptibility and lifestyle factors in the aetiology and prevention of chronic nutrition-related diseases, underpinned with research on pathophysiological mechanisms. Our clinically orientated research focuses on short-and long-term recovery of chronic and acute diseases through healthy and sustainable diets and well-accepted nutritious foods combined with physical activity.
Novel methods of dietary assessment and data-analysis, as well as (bio)markers of exposure, function, metabolism, genetic susceptibility, body composition, and (pre-)disease are being developed, evaluated and used in these studies in collaboration with colleagues within the Division of Human Nutrition and Health. Furthermore, research is conducted in close collaboration with the Alliance Nutrition in Health Care and various peripheral and academic hospitals.
Our research lines
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Cancer
Starting from the initial years, our research focusses on the role of diet and other lifestyle factors in the development of cancer. In recent years, the focus extended towards the role of diet, body composition, other lifestyle factors and diet-gene interactions during and after cancer treatment. We conduct observational epidemiological studies as well as human experimental studies. The ultimate goal of our research is to decrease the risk of cancer and to improve the health of those with cancer through better nutrition.
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Cardiometabolic diseases
Cardiometabolic diseases are the leading cause of death in western societies, and strongly increasing in low- and middle-income countries. The burden of cardiometabolic diseases is largely preventable by maintaining a healthy lifestyle including sufficient physical activity, limited alcohol use and a healthy diet.
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Chronic bowel diseases
Chronic bowel diseases (CBD) are highly prevalent, and the incidence is rising. This may concern men and women of all ages. CBD have a negative impact on a person’s quality of life. A sedentary, stressful lifestyle with poor nutrition may have a negative effect on the course of CBD. Therefore, even during medical treatment, lifestyle factors may play a role on the course of these diseases. In our research group, we study the effect of nutrition and physical activity on the course of chronic bowel diseases and on the gut microbiome.
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Obesity treatment
Our research focusses on patients with morbid obesity. Bariatric surgery is a valid option for people with morbid obesity who have already tried everything to lose weight. Every year in the Netherlands, approximately 12,000 people with morbid obesity undergo bariatric surgery.