Graduate Student Researcher
University of California, Davis
I am Hareem Zahid, a first-year PhD student in the UC Davis Graduate Group of Nutrition Biology. My research centers on exploring the intricate relationship between dietary components and cardiovascular health. Specifically, I am passionate about investigating how dietary choices influence zinc and iron absorption and bioavailability within the context of heart-healthy diets. My current work delves into the impact of phytic acid found in plant-based meals compared to zinc-rich meats on cardiovascular outcomes and physiology. Additionally, I am studying the effects of daily beef intake as a component of a heart-healthy diet on cellular zinc status and microvascular function. Through my research, I aim to provide valuable insights into optimizing dietary strategies for cardiovascular health, contributing to advancements in both nutrition science and public health.