Research Activities

Lipid-based prenatal supplement improves infant health and nutrition in Bangladesh

Since 2008, Kathryn Dewey has coordinated a massive, international research effort called the “iLiNS”, or International Lipid-Based Nutrient Supplements Project. The project focuses on formulating and evaluating cost-effective, lipid-based supplements — much like peanut butter — that have shown promise for improving nutrition for children and women in impoverished nations. Recent results indicate that fortified, lipid- or fat-based nutritional supplements provided during pregnancy to women in Bangladesh reduced stunting, abnormally low weight and small head size in babies born to these women.

Tiny packets of hope

Images of mud huts, lush jungle growth and rust-colored soil flash across Steve Vosti’s computer screen as the UC Davis economist scans photos of some of his research sites.