Richard Dana Lewis

Dr. Richard Dana Lewis is the UGA Foundation Professor in Nutritional Sciences at the University of Georgia's College of Family and Consumer Sciences. He leads the Bone & Body Composition Laboratory and specializes in osteoporosis prevention, particularly in pediatric populations. His research integrates nutrient studies (e.g., vitamin D, zinc), physical activity, and obesity's impact on bone development.

Education includes a PhD in Human Nutrition from Virginia Tech (1986), an MS in Foods and Nutrition from UGA (1978), and a BS in Psychology from UGA (1975). He teaches courses like Nutrition Throughout the Life Cycle and Medical Nutrition Therapy II.

Research focuses on bone quality assessment via DXA, pQCT, and MRI, aiming to identify cost-effective strategies to enhance bone strength in children. His work addresses obesity-related bone deficits and metabolic risks. Recent studies examine dietary inflammatory indices, whole egg consumption effects, and T-cell methylation in obesity.

Awards include the 2018 Undergraduate Research Mentor Award and 2016 Creswell Award. He serves on multiple review boards, including the NIH Data Safety and Monitoring Boards. Outreach includes the Georgia Osteoporosis Initiative and the Policy Leadership for Active Youth (PLAY) collaboration to combat childhood obesity.