My overall research goal is to establish a program that integrates analyses of taste perception with nutrient metabolism and the impact of dietary choices on health and disease in people. Research in my laboratory focuses on the analysis of individual differences in human taste perception and preferences, with an emphasis on sensory control of food and alcohol consumption. By using a combination of psychometrically sound validated sensory assessment methods, and metabolic research methods, we are currently studying or getting ready to study:1) The effects of bariatric surgery-induced weight loss on taste perception, eating behavior, and alcohol drinking behavior, and metabolism2) The effects of noncaloric sweeteners on taste preference and glucose homeostasis3) Fat taste perception4) The effects of head and neck cancer treatment on taste perception and eating behavior
