Our research aims to improve nutrition and health during the critical periods of development, from pregnancy to childhood. We have a particular interest in micronutrients including vitamin D. We work to decrease health disparities among minority populations in the United States, and those participating in federal food assistance programs such as WIC.
Research Projects
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Optimal Vitamin D for Maternal and Infant Health
Breast-fed infants are susceptible to vitamin D deficiency because breast milk contains insufficient amounts. Hence, public health guidelines suggest infant vitamin D supplementation to begin at birth yet, only 1/3 of US infants meet this recommendation. Our most recent work in this area explores adherence with current infant vitamin D policies and requirements among infants participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). We are also exploring predictors and health outcomes associated with maternal vitamin D status from the National Children’s Study, a longitudinal study of >5,000 US women followed from pregnancy.
Funding: Georgia CTSA NIH award (UL1-TR002378)
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Improving Access to Prenatal/Postpartum Nutrition
Georgia ranks #2 and #8 respectively for highest maternal and infant mortality rate nationally, and #4 for highest low birth weight (LBW; babies born weighing <2,500 grams). LBW infants are more likely to die during the first year of life and to develop health problems such as infections, than normal-weight infants. Research also suggests LBW infants have an increased risk of chronic conditions in adulthood. Black/African Americans in rural Georgia have ~1.5-4-fold increased risk of a LBW birth as compared to the state average. Receiving proper nutrition before, during and after pregnancy can also improve both mother and offspring health. We are gathering in-depth insights into the gaps in prenatal nutrition education as well lactation support in rural Georgia. This will help inform future community intervention/s which may include the development of new programming to serve the rural target population.
Funding: Rural Engagement Workshop Seed Grant
Meet the Staff
Sina Gallo
Sina Gallo examines how diet during the critical periods of development affects health and disease.