91��ý

Ref. no.: 4

An internationally recognized expert on the diet's role in modifying gut microbiota and metabolism in people managing obesity, diabetes and other chronic diseases will give a free public lecture at 91��ý’s St. John’s campus.

is a registered dietitian and professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Calgary.

According to Dr. Reimer, many factors such as medications, exercise and antibiotics can affect the microbiome, but diet is one of the most important.

Her presentation, titled Feed Your Friends: Nutrition and Gut Bacteria for Health, will highlight how our microbiome develops and the important role the gut microbiome plays in shaping our health.

'Simple and tasty changes'

Based on her research, Dr. Reimer's talk will highlight the role that diet, particularly prebiotic fibre, plays in modifying the gut microbiota to help manage chronic diseases such as obesity and osteoarthritis.

The presentation will also include an overview of other foods that affect the gut microbiome, including , as well as probiotics and ultra-processed foods.

“Given the fascinating link between gut health and overall health, the goal of my lecture is to help individuals find ways they can improve their gut health with simple and tasty changes to their diet,” said Dr. Reimer.  

Her talk will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 15, at 7 p.m. in the Bruneau Centre for Research and Innovation, room IIC-2001. The lecture is open to all and will be followed by a reception. Parking is available in lot 17.

is hosted by the . It was established by a bequest from Dr. Nigel Rusted in memory of his sister, a dietitian and high-ranking RCAF squadron leader in the Eastern Air Command during the Second World War.

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Dr. Raylene Reimer is available for an interview. For more information or to request an interview, please contact Nicole Squires, communications advisor, Faculty of Science, at 91��ý at n.squires@mun.ca.