Diet Nutrition
Obesity and type 2 diabetes represent major health concerns globally (World Health Organisation (WHO), 2016; Bluher, 2019) and recent UK public health recommendations have focused on limiting free sugars consumption to 5-10% of total daily energy intake (Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN), 2015). A key component of sugar reduction strategies is product reformulation, i.e. replacing free sugars with low-calorie sweeteners (LCS) (Public Health England (PHE), 2017). This is likely to result in increased use of LCS, which is already widespread. LCS are often used to reduce the energy density of the diet without compromising on palatability and, whilst experimental data tends to support the case for a beneficial effect of LCS on energy intake, evidence from free-living populations is less clear (Rogers et al., 2016).
The lack of scientific consensus around the efficacy of LCS for promoting human health has led to research into potential mechanisms by which they may impact body weight and/or glucose metabolism. These potential mechanisms include altered taste preferences, metabolic effects, and interactions with the gut microbiota (Burke and Small, 2015) albeit no specific mechanism has been conclusively established. Therefore, the overarching aim of this project is to investigate the relationship between LCS and human health with a view to exploring specific mechanisms related to body weight regulation and glucose metabolism.
Specific project objectives are:
- To investigate the effect of LCS on markers of glucose metabolism and appetite regulation.
- To investigate the effect of LCS on behavioural factors related to body weight regulation.
The proposed project will build upon previous work undertaken at Ulster. To date, a novel urinary biomarker approach has been developed (Logue et al., 2017) and applied to reveal widespread exposure to multiple LCS in free-living populations (Logue et al., 2020). Such findings have highlighted important gaps in the literature, which need to be addressed to help inform strategies aimed at preventing and managing unintentional weight gain (overweight and obesity) as well as in the prevention and management of diabetes mellitus.
Proposed Methods
The project will initially involve a systematic review of the literature to inform in vitro and in vivo research into the impact of LCS on body weight status, dietary behaviours, and gut hormone release in various models. A targeted approach will be used to assess whether specific combinations of LCS impact glucose metabolism, gut hormone release (GLP-1, GIP) as well as food choice and energy consumption at physiologically relevant concentrations. Other factors related to dietary behaviours such as relative food preferences and sensory characteristics will also be considered. This project will address some important limitations of existing research by investigating LCS in a way that is reflective of actual use i.e. in combinations rather than in isolation and at concentrations observed in the diet.
The successful candidate will work with an experienced and varied supervisory team to gain experience in a range of scientific methods. They will also get the opportunity to present their findings at national and international scientific conferences.
For details and how to apply please see: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/doctoralcollege/find-a-phd/794712
Interviews by Faculties: April 2021
Outcome letters sent to applicants: Late April/early May 2021
Scholarships commence: September 2021
Eligibility Criteria
· Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a first or upper second-class honours degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study. Applicants deemed by Senate to hold an equivalent qualification will also be considered.
· Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year, or part-time equivalent, funded from any source, including self-financing researchers, are NOT eligible for a scholarship.
· All applicants should also hold a relevant English language qualification. All applications for scholarships will be considered on a competitive basis and with regard to the applicant’s qualifications, skills, experience and interests.
· Competition for funded entry is very high. It is important that all parts of the application process are completed in accordance with the instructions. All applicants are advised to discuss their application with the staff noted within the project description prior to submission.
· Applicants should note that disclosure of disability or personal circumstances should be made as part of the application process or as soon as possible thereafter in order to facilitate any necessary accommodation.
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