Lily Sebastian Advances Nutrition Research at Texas Woman's University

Sebastian’s interest in nutrition is influenced by her upbringing and her ambition to attend medical school. She stated, “I love food, and my mom has always been a proponent of healthy eating, demonstrating that healthy food can taste great. Studying nutrition will give me a great foundation for my future in health care. I want to explore how nutrition can merge with women’s health and pregnancy.”

Eager to engage in research from the beginning of her academic journey, Sebastian started working with a graduate student in her freshman year. As a sophomore, she initiated her research project examining the impact of whey protein on symptoms experienced by women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), which she continues into her junior year.

“Ever since high school, I have been interested in women’s health,” she remarked. “Many women suffer from reproductive disorders, so it is important that more research is conducted on viable treatments.”

Sebastian noted that whey protein may help maintain normal blood glucose levels, as suggested by studies involving individuals with type 2 diabetes. In women with PCOS, who often deal with insulin resistance, whey protein isolate might lower glucose and insulin spikes, presenting a potential dietary alternative to traditional treatment methods like birth control pills or metformin, which can have unwanted side effects.

She has presented her findings at various regional and national conferences and co-authored a paper with Shane Broughton, PhD, chair of Nutrition & Food Sciences, and her mentor, Monique LeMieux, PhD.

Broughton remarked on her proactive approach, saying, “Lily took the initiative to discuss becoming an active participant in my research program before she enrolled in classes.” He emphasized plans to create more research opportunities for undergraduates to enhance their marketability post-graduation.

Sebastian is also engaged in numerous campus activities, including the Honors Program, Pre-Health Club, Phi Upsilon Omicron Honor Society, and the Running Club. She is a Chancellor’s Endowed Scholar and participates in the campus Health and Wellbeing Initiative and the Center for Student Leadership.

“Getting involved on campus has allowed me to meet new people and have incredible experiences,” she said. “I've heard from great speakers and attended helpful workshops.”

Sebastian credits the supportive faculty at TWU for her positive experience. “The support I have received from faculty, even before I enrolled, has been remarkable,” she expressed. “The care they take in helping students is exceptional.”

With continued faculty support and a strong commitment to making a difference in health care, Sebastian is set to achieve her goals at TWU and beyond.