Nutritional Intervention Research Unit
Services
available
NIRU
offers a wide range of nutritional research services which include the following:
Laboratory
analytical services
A wide range of analytical procedures are carried out on a routine basis for
the evaluation of iron, folate, iodine, vitamins A and E, and zinc status
of individuals and communities.
The NIRU laboratory has
also established itself as a leader in the field of lipid analysis of biological
samples. These include cholesterol, acyl-glycerols, fatty acids and phospholipids.
Community
empowerment
NIRU has extensive experience in developing research capacity in communities.
Examples include the following:
- Training of women to
perform anthropometric measurements (weight and length/height and head circumference)
and to do growth monitoring, administer questionnaires, collect morbidity
data, and to do rapid assessments of health and nutritional status.
- Community health workers
are also trained to collect food consumption data.
Food
composition database
NIRU is responsible for maintaining and updating the South African food composition
database. The database and dietary software programs based on this database
are available from NIRU.
Further
information can be obtained from Ms J Humphreys at fax number
(021) 938-0321. Additional information and order forms can be obtained
at: www.sahealthinfo.org (nutrition module). |
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