Ph.D. Candidate
Texas A&M University
My name is Shirley Arbizu and I am a Ph.D. candidate in the Food Science and Technology Department at Texas A&M University. I conudcted a human clinical trial to investigate whether the intake of polyphenols and fiber through dark sweet cherry supplementation for 30 days can contribute to improving the overall well-being of adults with obesity through the modulation of the gut microbiota-liver-brains axis. Findings from my research will help to establish the scientific evidence to support the health benefits of dark sweet cherries and their potential use as dietary supplements aimed to increase resilience against obesity-related disorders. The knowledge generated in this study may increase the consumer’s awareness of cherry health benefits to promote their consumption in the US and in developing countries in which the prevalence and incidence of obesity are rapidly increasing at alarming rates.
As a graduate student, I have received multiple scholarships and awards, including Academic Excellence Awards from Texas A&M and the Fulbright Scholarship, which sponsored my Master’s studies at Texas A&M University. Besides my research and teaching skills, I also have solid work experience as an R&D Food Scientist as I have worked for multiple food and beverage companies, including AJE (Peruvian beverage company) and Kellogg's.