Our department undertakes research on energy metabolism and appropriate intake of major nutrients such as protein, lipid and carbohydrate with the aim to provide the data for establishment of the “Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for Japanese” of energy and major nutrients. We also work on research on pathogenesis of lifestyle-related diseases caused by excessive or inadequate intake of these nutrients, as well as on prevention of these diseases.

• Section of Energy Metabolism
  
  This section examines estimation methods of energy expenditure in one’s daily life using doubly labeled water method and human calorimeter. And, we undertake research to provide the data for establishement of estimated energy requirement (EER) in the “Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for Japanese” which is revised every five years by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Additionally, this section undertakes research on energy metabolism during resting and activity (energy expenditure and substrate utilization) and on regulatory mechanism and potential variables of energy balance including diet.
  
  

• Section of Major Nutrients
  
  This section undertakes research that would contribute to establishment of the “Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for Japanese”, by examining appropriate intake of major nutrients such as protein, lipid and carbohydrate for prevention of lifestyle-related diseases and obesity. We also explores the mechanism of pathogenesis of lifestyle-related diseases caused by excessive or inadequate intake of these nutrients.