[Pillars for excellence in nutrition units - research]

Area of Science:

• Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics
• Biomedical Research

Background:

• Clinical nutrition and dietetics research involves systematic intellectual and experimental activities to advance knowledge.
• Biomedical research in clinical nutrition and dietetics units (UNCyDs) should be clinical-translational, bridging research and practice.
• High-quality healthcare is linked to research activities within UNCyDs, emphasizing an inseparable connection between practice and science.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a historical overview of clinical nutrition as a scientific discipline.
• To briefly discuss legislation supporting biomedical research.
• To propose strategies for promoting research in UNCyDs and guide on funding, transfer, and dissemination of results.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of clinical nutrition's emergence.
• Brief mention of supportive legislation for biomedical research.
• Proposal of key strategies for research promotion and guidance on funding and dissemination.

Main Results:

• Clinical nutrition has evolved as a distinct scientific discipline.
• Existing legislation supports biomedical research endeavors.
• Specific strategies and funding avenues for research in UNCyDs are outlined.

Conclusions:

• Promoting research is an obligation for health management and nutrition units.
• Integrating research into clinical practice enhances healthcare quality and accelerates scientific knowledge transfer.
• Effective strategies for funding, transferring, and disseminating research are crucial for UNCyDs.