Mónica Sousa

Mónica Sousa is an Assistant Professor at NOVA Medical School of Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, specializing in Sports Nutrition and Clinical Nutrition. She leads the ProNutri research group at CINTESIS Center and serves as a consultant for European Athletics' Medical & Anti-doping Commission.

• PhD in Sports Sciences (2015) - University of Porto
• BSc in Nutrition (2008) - University of Porto
• IOC Diploma in Sports Nutrition (International Olympic Committee)

Her research focuses on athlete nutrition assessment, energy availability, and gut microbiota adaptations. Recent studies examine dietary supplement practices in elite athletes, nutrition education programs for children, and nutritional strategies for endurance sports.

Key publication trends include:

• Systematic reviews on athlete nutrition and microbiome interactions
• Observational studies across multiple sports championships
• Interventions combining football training with nutrition education
• Longitudinal energy availability assessments in competitive sports

Scientific contributions recognized through:

• 4 academic awards/homenages
• Leadership in Portuguese Football Federation nutrition consensus
• Coordination of nutrition programs at Sporting Clube de Portugal

Professional engagements include clinical work at CUF Descobertas Hospital's Lifestyle Medicine Unit and consulting for European athletics organizations. Her research bridges practical sports nutrition implementation with rigorous scientific evaluation across diverse athletic populations.