Whole Foods Research Lab
We are on a mission to help families adopt a healthy diet pattern to support metabolic health from childhood to adulthood.
Our Goal
Our lab is focused on helping individuals stop counting calories or restricting meals, and instead use “whole foods” to improve the diet-quality of families at risk of diet-preventable conditions like type 2 diabetes and obesity. We use a family-centered approach to tailor our recommendations and support the unique needs and preferences of all families, one meal at a time.
Meet Our Team
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Margaret Green, MS, RD, LDN
Registered Dietician Nutritionist
Maggie Green is a registered dietitian with experience in clinical nutrition care and nutrition counseling. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Dietetics from the University of Georgia and a Master of Science in Nutrition from Lipscomb University, where she also completed her dietetic internship. Her work at Vanderbilt University Medical Center includes the development and execution of pediatric clinical trials aimed at promoting healthy childhood growth and weight management. She is dedicated to helping improve the health and well-being of children and families through evidence-based nutrition interventions. In the Whole Foods Lab, she serves as the study dietitian working closely with participating families to offer nutrition education and support on diet adherence.
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Isabella Peng
Research Assistant
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Pranoy Sangowder
Research Assistant
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Kylee Vecchi, MS, RDN, LD, CDCES, CNSC
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
Kylee is a registered dietitian with leadership experience spanning clinical care, project management, and interdisciplinary healthcare operations. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and a certification in Global Health from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she later completed her Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition. Her dietetic internship was completed at Central Washington University. In addition to her academic training, Kylee holds specialized certifications in nutrition support and diabetes care. At Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Kylee contributes to the design and implementation of clinical trials focused on behavioral health, aiming to enhance wellbeing among children, adolescents, and families. Within the Whole Foods Lab, she serves as both the program manager and study dietitian, overseeing research initiatives and ensuring nutritional integrity across study protocols.
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Reilly E Wade
Publications
Sneed, N.M., Kelley, R., Turner, H. et al. The development and testing of a single-arm feasibility and acceptability study of a whole foods diet intervention for adults with prediabetes and their offspring. Pilot Feasibility Stud 10, 130 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40814-024-01554-9
Funding
- Vanderbilt Faculty Research Scholars Program
- Vanderbilt Digestive Diseases Research Center Pilot Project Program
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing Health Equity Fellowship Program