Dr. Minu Sara Thomas

Biography

Dr. Minu Sara Thomas is an Assistant Professor in the Nutrition and Dietetics Program at Western Carolina University’s School of Health Sciences. With over a decade of experience in higher education, Dr. Thomas specializes in teaching nutritional biochemistry, advanced human nutrition, and advanced medical nutrition therapy. She is actively involved in shaping the Nutrition and Dietetics curriculum and is an academic advisor to the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) students. Prior to joining Western Carolina University, Dr. Thomas held roles as Adjunct Faculty and Research Assistant at the University of Connecticut, further enriching her teaching and research portfolio.<br><br>Dr. Thomas earned her Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences (2022) and a Master’s degree (2018) from the University of Connecticut, where she also completed her Dietetic Internship in 2023. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from Madurai Kamaraj University and a Master’s in Medical Biochemistry from Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, India.<br><br>Her research focuses on dietary interventions to prevent cardiometabolic diseases, particularly Metabolic Syndrome. Dr. Thomas is also investigating the impact of digital, primarily social media, on eating patterns among college students, reflecting her interest in the influence of modern technology on nutrition behaviors. She has participated in several clinical trials and authored multiple peer-reviewed publications.<br><br>In addition to her academic and research roles, Dr. Thomas serves as a reviewer for several scientific journals, staying current with emerging research in the field.<br><br>Outside of work, she enjoys exploring diverse cuisines, photography, and traveling and values spending time with her family.

Education

• Ph D, University of Connecticut
• MS, University of Connecticut
• MS, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham
• BS, Madurai Kamaraj University

Teaching Interests

My teaching interests encompass Nutritional Biochemistry, Human Nutritional Needs, Nutrition through the Life Cycle, Advanced Human Nutrition, and Advanced Medical Nutrition Therapy for undergraduate and graduate students. I focus on making learning practical and relevant, equipping students for careers as dietitians, and making informed lifestyle changes that enhance well-being. I am passionate about improving nutritional literacy for all students, regardless of their career path. I specialize in both online and in-person teaching, and I also mentor independent study projects focused on undergraduate research, fostering critical thinking and hands-on experience in nutrition science.

Research Interests

My research focuses on dietary interventions and lifestyle modifications to treat cardiometabolic diseases, particularly metabolic syndrome. I investigate a range of therapeutic approaches, including plant-based diets, eggs, nutraceuticals, and lifestyle changes, with the aim of reversing the condition. Additionally, I am exploring more targeted therapies to further improve treatment outcomes. My current work also examines the ethical impact of digital media, especially social media, on eating patterns and diet quality in college students, seeking to understand how these platforms influence nutrition behaviors and contribute to health challenges in younger populations.