Nutrition & Metabolism Research
About the Research Group
The Nutrition and Metabolism Research Theme is a multidisciplinary research team focused on advancing evidence‑based understanding of nutrition and metabolic health, primarily in African populations. By addressing the growing burden of metabolic disorders such as obesity, diabetes and micronutrient deficiencies, the group integrates human, animal and environmental health through a One Health approach. Its research spans community-based studies, laboratory investigations and animal models, with a strong emphasis on locally relevant nutritional strategies, indigenous plant-based therapies, and sustainable livestock production. Through collaborative research, capacity building, and strategic partnerships, the theme aims to generate impactful, culturally relevant knowledge that informs policy and improves health outcomes across South Africa and the broader African continent.
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Metabolism Research Laboratory focuses on:
- Characterisation of indigenous flora for nutrients and medicinal phytochemicals
- Developmental programming of metabolism for good health
- Nutritional modulation of metabolic disorders in African populations
- Evaluation of plant-based and culturally grounded therapeutic interventions for metabolic health
- Impact of non-conventional livestock feeds and feed processing technologies and phytogenics on livestock productive performance, health, product quality, and welfare
Nutrition Research Laboratory focuses on:
- Nutrition-based interventions for hypertension
- Dietary salt and nocturnal blood pressure regulation
- Metabolic syndrome and heart failure
- Body composition and cardiometabolic risk
Staff Involved
Professor Kennedy Erlwanger (Kennedy.Erlwanger@wits.ac.za)
Professor Eliton Chivandi
Professor Muzi Maseko
Dr Michael Madziva
Dr Monica Gomes
Dr Zibusiso Mkandla
Dr Mmahiine Mosana
Ms Mokgadi Maseko
Mr Sunday Ntuli