NMHI Mission

Mission, Vision, & Values

The Nutrition and Metabolic Health Initiative (NMHI) mission is to combat obesity and metabolic disease with cutting edge research, healthcare education and training, and state-of-the-science clinical and community-based programs.

Goals

Our overarching goal at NMHI is to improve the health of adults, children, and the communities in which they live through advancing knowledge, training the next generations of healthcare providers, and providing direct clinical care.

 

 

Research

The internationally recognized clinical scientists at the Nutrition & Metabolic Health Initiative (NMHI) are playing a vital role in expanding the global influence and research excellence of the Texas Tech University Department of Nutritional Sciences. Through groundbreaking research, scientific innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, NMHI is strengthening the department’s leadership on the international stage.

These expert researchers are actively advancing knowledge in critical areas that directly impact public health. Their work spans a broad spectrum, including:

• Nutrition and metabolic diseases – with a strong focus on the prevention, treatment, and management of conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.
• Community nutrition and food security – addressing nutritional disparities, improving access to healthy food, and promoting sustainable solutions in underserved populations.
• General nutrition and health promotion – developing and evaluating strategies to encourage healthier lifestyles and improve long-term wellness at both the individual and population levels.

NMHI’s efforts not only contribute to high-impact scientific publications and global health initiatives but also directly inform clinical practice, policy development, and community-based programs. Through these endeavors, the Institute continues to shape the future of nutrition science and elevate the international reputation of Texas Tech University.

Education

At NMHI, we are dedicated to shaping the next generation of clinical scientists and healthcare professionals through a dynamic blend of hands-on patient care, cutting-edge research, and immersive educational experiences.

Our programs provide valuable training opportunities not only for undergraduate and graduate students across the Texas Tech University System, but also for practicing healthcare providers in the broader community. Students gain real-world experience in clinical and research settings, preparing them for impactful careers in nutrition, medicine, and public health.

In addition, NMHI offers advanced, science-driven education and training for medical professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in the management of obesity and the nutritional components of metabolic diseases such as diabetes. These programs are designed to equip providers with the latest evidence-based strategies for delivering specialized, high-quality care in these critical areas of health.

Community Outreach & Engagement

The Nutrition & Metabolic Health Initiative (NMHI) acts as a hub for clinical care and community health. The facility serves as a central resource for clinical services and community outreach aimed at enhancing the health and well-being of individuals in Lubbock and the surrounding West Texas region.

Through a variety of innovative programs, NMHI offers comprehensive evaluations of nutritional status, metabolic function, and lifestyle-related health factors. Our multidisciplinary team provides evidence-based, personalized care designed to prevent and manage chronic conditions and promote long-term wellness.

At our state-of-the-science facility, individuals have access to:

• Advanced obesity treatment programs rooted in the latest scientific research
• Individualized nutritional counseling to support healthy eating habits and disease prevention
• Body composition and metabolic testing using cutting-edge technology
• Behavioral lifestyle modification and wellness programs focused on sustainable, positive change

All of our services are designed with a single goal: to improve overall health, prevent disease, and enhance quality of life for our patients and the broader community.