Neda Akhavan

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Assistant Professor of Nutrition Sciences
Expertise: Functional foods, Whole foods, Fresh fruits and vegetables, Supplements, Nutraceuticals, Diet, Cardiometabolic disorders, Musculoskeletal disorders, Older adults and aging

Biography

Neda Akhavan is an expert on the role of nutrition in preventing and managing chronic diseases.

Her research focuses on understanding how functional foods — including whole foods, extracts, and dietary supplements — improve or prevent chronic illness. Additionally, Akhavan studies how things like dietary patterns, obesity, aging, and activities of daily living impact disease and wellness.

She has worked with individuals from several populations, including those with diabetes/pre-diabetes, hypertension/pre-hypertension, metabolic syndrome, osteoporosis/osteopenia, osteoarthritis, postmenopause, and cognitive decline. For example, one of Akhavan's most recent studies probed the role of potatoes in heart health, especially for people with Type 2 diabetes. She has also delved into the health benefits of food items such as eggs, prunes, and almonds.

Akhavan is also a registered dietitian who joined UNLV’s Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition Sciences in August 2023, and teaches courses that touch on topics including the physical dimensions of aging, functional foods and health, and human nutrition. She is an active member of the American Society for Nutrition and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Education

  • Ph.D., Human Nutrition, Florida State University
  • M.S., Nutrition Sciences, Florida State University
  • B.S., Dietetics, Florida State University

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Neda Akhavan In The News

Baked Potatoes and Other Carbs May Have Diabetes Benefits—if Eaten the Right Way
Woman's World
Not all carbohydrates are created equal. While the complex carbohydrate is  an important part of a healthy, balanced diet—as they help us feel full and offer sustainable energy—refined or simple carbs typically increase blood sugar levels as high glyemic index (GI) foods and add very little nutritional value.
Research Says This Carby Food Could Actually Be a Superfood for People With Diabetes—Here's Why
AOL
Baked potatoes have tons of benefits for your body. The potato skin, in particular, is the ticket.
Research Says This Carby Food Could Actually Be a Superfood for People With Diabetes—Here's Why
Parade
If you have diabetes, you may be all too familiar with the practice of opting for low-carb foods as often as possible. Even people who don’t have diabetes may get the idea—from diet culture—that carbs are one of the “worst” nutrients for your body.
The delicious baked potato is a gift for diabetics and weight-watchers? New study reveals surprising benefits
The Hindustan Times
Diabetes and potatoes have always had a contradictory relationship with decades of us believing that potatoes are enemies to diabetic patients. However, that may not be true if we know how to cook a potato the right way.
All Neda Akhavan In The News

Articles Featuring Neda Akhavan

UNLV Newsmakers 2024: August
Students pass by Lied Library as they walk campus on the first day of Fall 2024 semester classes
Campus News | September 6, 2024

A collection of news highlights featuring students and faculty.

All Articles Featuring Neda Akhavan