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.