The Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at UF Health remains committed to advancing research at the intersection of nutrition and neurological health. As part of this mission, Kaylyn Koons, a researcher in the UF Food Science and Human Nutrition Department, has made significant contributions through her involvement in multiple clinical trials and research initiatives.

Research Contributions
Kaylyn has participated in several key studies aimed at improving the understanding of nutrition’s impact on neurological diseases, including Parkinson’s disease and ALS. These studies include:
- Provider Perspectives on Feeding Tube Conversations in ALS Clinics – The survey tool is currently being revised, with study implementation planned for Spring 2025.
- Relationships Between Hydration, Nutritional Status, and Non-Motor Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study – Recruitment is currently in progress.
- Got Choline? – A screening tool for choline intake has been integrated into the above study for preliminary validation in the Parkinson’s disease population, with additional validation using a U.S. representative sample scheduled for early 2025.
- Test-Retest Reliability of the MIND Diet Screener – A manuscript resubmission is pending.
- Acute Meal Effects of Fiber Supplementation on Symptoms of Gastroparesis in α-Synucleinopathies – The study protocol is currently in development.
Academic and Clinical Milestones
In addition to her research contributions, Kaylyn has achieved key academic and professional milestones:
- Successfully formed a graduate committee.
- Proposed and obtained IRB approval for her neuro-nutrition research project, with active recruitment underway.
- Completed all required academic coursework.
- Gained clinical experience in patient care for Parkinson’s, dystonia, and related movement disorders. While she is not yet a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), she is currently completing her dietetic internship (January – May 2025) and will resume her neuro-nutrition research in Summer 2025.
Advancing the Future of Neuro-Nutrition
Kaylyn’s research aligns with the Fixel Institute’s mission to explore how nutrition influences disease progression and symptom management. Her work contributes to the development of evidence-based dietary strategies that could enhance patient care for individuals with movement disorders.
The institute will continue to provide updates on Kaylyn’s progress and other advancements in neuro-nutrition research.
For more information on current studies and opportunities to participate, please visit our clinical trials page.