CNP Overview
Drexel University's Center for Nutrition & Performance
Drexel University's Center for Nutrition & Performance (CNP) is dedicated to advancing high-performance nutrition services. This initiative promotes academic excellence by integrating global and regional opportunities beyond traditional classroom settings.
Purpose of the Center
The CNP serves multiple strategic purposes, including:
Establishing a revenue stream through innovative programs.
Engaging in translational research that can be applied in real-world settings.
Achieving global reach for its educational and research initiatives.
Striving for academic and clinical excellence through rigorous standards.
Enhancing pedagogical interactions between students and faculty.
Encouraging alumni engagement for ongoing support and mentorship.
Promoting innovation in the field of nutrition.
Contributing to institutional reputation in the realm of health and education.
Services Offered
Drexel CNP provides a variety of services aimed at different demographic groups:
Nutrition Counseling for individuals and teams.
Support for professional sports teams and collegiate sports teams.
Retail menu nutrient analysis to ensure healthy options.
Opportunities for graduate and undergraduate experiences.
Specialized Sports Nutrition consulting provided by accredited professionals.
Programs for workplace health and wellness.
Academic inspired programming that incorporates practical experiences.
Dragon Gel Product Development
The innovative Dragon Gel™ was developed as a sports nutrition product inspired by needs from Drexel’s athletes.
Initially, the men's soccer team in 2011 identified honey as a source for an energy boost at halftime.
Nutrition interns measured the carbohydrate consumption, revealing players ingested only about 10 grams of carbohydrates per game, significantly less than needed for optimal performance.
The goal was to create an effective source of carbohydrates with an ideal balance of fructose and glucose to replenish glycogen stores efficiently, culminating in the successful testing of Dragon Gel™ by 2014.
To date, over 60,000 Dragon Gels have been produced for use by professional athletes.
Nutrition Facts of Dragon Gel
Calories: 160 per serving
The product has been well-received and used by numerous college teams and professional athletes, showcasing Drexel's commitment to enhancing athletic performance through nutrition.
Student Experiences at Drexel CNP
Drexel offers rich opportunities for students, including:
CNP Internship programs tailored towards practical learning.
The NFS 497 one-credit course.
Co-op opportunities that provide hands-on experiences.
Involvement in the World University Games, expanding exposure to international cultures.
The Farm to Athlete initiative connecting agriculture with nutrition advocacy.
Added Value of Student Programs
Students gain international exposure and cultural insights.
Travel grants are available to support participation in global events.
International Experiences
Drexel's students have had transformative experiences at international events, such as the World University Games. Participants describe these experiences as life-changing, allowing them to collaborate with Team USA and engage with various cultures around the world.
Sports Nutrition Fellowship and Conferences
Drexel provides specialized programs:
The Sports Nutrition Fellowship offers Registered Dietitians invaluable experience while earning Continuing Professional Education Units (CPEUs) and hours towards CSSD certification.
Engagement in collaborative sports nutrition conferences enhances professional development.
By 2023, programs will provide continuing education credits for various healthcare professionals.
Institutional Impact and Outlook
The CNP contributes significantly to the university’s reputation and provides a robust revenue stream through its innovative services and community engagement. With an ongoing focus on expanding its reach and educational offerings, Drexel University continues to lead in nutrition and performance education.