Laura Acosta

Laura Acosta is an Associate Professor and Undergraduate Coordinator in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition at the University of Florida, part of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. Her expertise focuses on clinical nutrition care, malnutrition diagnosis, and integrating fitness with nutritional strategies for optimal wellness. She holds dual roles as a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) with UF/IFAS and instructional leader.

Her research emphasizes the health impacts of green tea extracts, particularly their effects on postmenopausal women’s liver health and blood pressure regulation. She has published studies exploring genetic factors influencing nutritional responses and the long-term effects of dietary supplements. Acosta is also actively engaged in media outreach, addressing public health topics like matcha tea benefits, reverse dieting, and processed food consumption.

• Teaching: Clinical Nutrition, Medical Nutrition Therapy, and Nutrition Counseling methodologies
• Media Contributions: U.S. News, Reader’s Digest, and Growing America outlets
• Lab/Team: Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams on nutrigenomics and chronic disease prevention