A showcase of some of the vital research projects volunteers can help with will feature at an open evening held at a north-east nutrition institute.
The event will run at the University of Aberdeen Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health tomorrow from 5.30pm until 7pm.
A host of research projects are ongoing, which could shape the way we eat in the future or help to develop foods with added health benefits. Studies like those carried out at the institute have shaped the products seen on supermarket shelves and the dietary advice given by governments and health organisations.
These projects include a programme investigating whether specially adapted bread could be suitable for those sensitive to gluten without requiring the removal of the protein altogether, and trials to see whether blackcurrants can reduce sugar intake when taken with a meal and therefore have long term benefits like preventing the development of diabetes.
Dr Nigel Hoggard, who is leading the gluten study, said: “The open evening is a fantastic opportunity for anyone who may be interested in taking part in a research study to come along and find out more about what it is our researchers do.
“Dietary trials are essential to what we do and we need suitable volunteers if we are to take these important areas of research forward.
“Each trial has different requirements so people of all ages, shapes and sizes could be suitable. For these particular trials we are looking for normal weight or over weight non-smoking men or women aged between 18 and 75, and people who are on a gluten-free diet because they experience non-coeliac gluten sensitivity.
“We are always keen to hear from anyone who may wish to take part in any of our studies and would be delighted to provide anyone with any more information they need.”
During the open evening researchers leading the projects will talk about what they hope to discover, and the essential role volunteers play.
Those attending will be given a tour of the Human Nutrition Unit, and refreshments will be provided.
Anyone interested in participating in the gluten study or attending the event should contact Dr Hoggard on 01224 438709 or n.hoggard@abdn.ac.uk
