Deutsches Institut für Ernährungsforschung
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About Deutsches Institut für Ernährungsforschung Potsdam-Rehbrücke
editThe Deutsche Institut für Ernährungsforschung Potsdam-Rehbrücke (DIfE) is a leading research institute dedicated to investigating the connections between nutrition and health. As a member of the Leibniz Association, DIfE aims to make scientific findings useful for the prevention and therapy of diet-related diseases. The institute's research focuses on the causes and consequences of metabolic syndrome, which includes obesity, hypertension, insulin resistance, and disorders of lipid metabolism. Additionally, DIfE examines the role of nutrition in healthy aging as well as the biological foundations of dietary choices and eating behavior.
Key Products and Services
editDIfE offers a variety of research services ranging from experimental diabetology to molecular epidemiology and nutrition and gerontology research. A particular highlight is the development of risk scores for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, based on extensive epidemiological data. Furthermore, the institute has developed the Multiple Source Method (MSM) program, which calculates usual food intake from 24-hour recall data, thus enabling a more precise nutritional assessment.
Mission and Values
editThe mission of DIfE is to promote the health of the population through excellent research. The institute places great importance on interdisciplinary collaboration and the translation of research findings into practical applications. Scientific integrity is at the core, supported by open and transparent communication of research results.
Sustainability Goals and Initiatives
editDIfE is actively committed to sustainability in research. It promotes the development of dietary strategies that are not only health-promoting but also environmentally friendly. In collaboration with international partners, the institute investigates the effects of dietary changes, such as replacing animal fats with plant oils, on health and the environment. These studies contribute to the development of evidence-based recommendations for sustainable nutrition.
Cooperations and Networks
editDIfE is part of an extensive network of collaborations, including Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin and the University of Potsdam. It is also a partner of the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD) and participates in international projects such as the EPIC study, which examines the connections between nutrition and chronic diseases.
Through its comprehensive research work and strong networking, DIfE significantly contributes to improving public health and developing sustainable dietary strategies.