Back to top

Photograph of Kathleen Holton

Kathleen Holton Assoc Professor Department of Health Studies

Degrees
PhD, Nutritional Sciences, University of Arizona
MPH, Epidemiology, University of Arizona
BS, Marketing, University of Arizona

Bio
Dr. Kathleen Holton is a nutritional neuroscientist. Her research examines the negative effects
of dietary excitotoxins on neurological symptoms, as well as the positive protective effects of
certain micronutrients on the brain. The most common dietary excitotoxin exposures in the US are from food additives used as flavor enhancers and artificial sweeteners. Dr. Holton’s research is exploring the beneficial effects of removing these additives, while optimizing the nutrient composition of the diet. Her research covers effects on all age groups, from brain development in neonates, to children with neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD, to adults and elderly with neurological symptoms. Her current research projects include a DoD funded clinical trial examining the effects of a low glutamate diet on the neurological symptoms of Gulf War Illness. Dr. Holton is also conducting global research in Meru, Kenya to study how diet may be impacting widespread chronic pain in this region of the world.
See Also
Nutritional Neuroscience Lab
Department of Health Studies
For the Media
To request an interview for a news story, call AU Communications at 202-885-5950 or submit a request.

Teaching

Fall 2022

  • HLTH-210 Intro to Human Health/Disease

  • NEUR-899 Doctoral Dissertation

Spring 2023

  • HLTH-635 Nutritional Neuroscience

  • NEUR-898 Doctoral Continuing Enrollment

  • NEUR-899 Doctoral Dissertation

AU Experts

Area of Expertise

Processed Food, Food Additives, Adverse Reactions to Food, General Nutrition, Optimizing Diet (kids and adults)

Additional Information

Holton is a nutritional neuroscientist in the Department of Health Studies and AU's Center for Behavioral Neuroscience. Her research examines the negative effects of dietary excitotoxins on neurological symptoms, as well as the positive protective effects of certain micronutrients on the brain. 

For the Media

To request an interview for a news story, call AU Communications at 202-885-5950 or submit a request.

Related Links