Punam Ohri-Vachaspati

Dr. Ohri-Vachaspati, PhD, RD, is an Associate Professor of Nutrition at the School of Nutrition and Health Promotion. Under the umbrella of public health nutrition, her research aims to understand the social-ecological determinants of health with a focus on reducing health disparities. She examines food environments in community settings, schools, and child care centers, and assesses the role federal, state, and local policies play in shaping these environments as they related to obesity prevention efforts. Her research is currently funded by the National Institutes of Health, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the United States Department of Agriculture, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. She works with researchers at ASU, Rutgers University, University of Illinois, and Case Western Reserve University among others. Dr. Ohri-Vachaspati teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in the area of obesity prevention and research methods. Dr. Ohri-Vachaspati received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from University of Delhi, India with a focus on food and nutrition, a master’s and a doctorate degree from Tufts University School of Nutrition in Food Policy and Applied Nutrition, and completed her dietetic internship in Public Health Nutrition from Case Western Reserve University. Prior to coming to ASU she worked at the Ohio State University, Rutgers University, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
Research focus: Public Health Nutrition:
Social-ecological determinants of obesity
Role of environments and policies in influencing consumption behaviors and health outcomes
Determinants of food access among disadvantaged populations
Assessment of federal nutrition assistance programs and policies
Assessment of food and physical activity environments
Study of nutrition interventions in schools and community settings.

Sort options

Introduction to Health and Wellness (edX)

Explore current concepts in health, exercise, and wellness and learn how to shape your own personal health in this credit-eligible course. This 3 credit hour health and wellness course focuses on the latest trends in health, exercise, and wellness. From stress management and emotional health to overall well being, [...]