Dr Shanil Juma
2017 Presentation Title – Berries and Bone Health: From In Vitro to Clinical Evidence
Shanil Juma’s main research interest is investigating the etiology of age-related conditions, osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, as a basis for the development of effective nutritional strategies for the prevention and management of these disorders. These research projects employ analytical, biochemical, and molecular techniques using cell culture and animal models, as well as small-scale clinical trials. The focus of these investigations is to elucidate the anti-inflammatory, bone, and joint protective properties of naturally occurring bioactive compounds present in whole foods (functional foods, e.g. blueberries, raspberries, grape, tart cherries etc.).
Dr. Juma’s secondary research focus is on obesity and obesity-related metabolic conditions (diabetes, cardiovascular, etc.). Current studies are focused on food components such as resistant starch, spices (curcumin, cinnamon, etc), and berry polyphenols (blueberry, raspberry, strawberry, etc.) on weight management, glucose homeostasis, and gut health.