Dr Sarah Graef
Name:
Sarah Graef
Job title:
Manager, Research Dietitian
Place of work / study:
Rush University Medical Center
Area of Research:
I’m interested in lifestyle medicine with a focus on nutrition [1] within primary and tertiary prevention. As a PhD candidate, I’m working in a multidomain lifestyle intervention to protect cognitive function.
How is your work funded:
The main grant is funded by the Alzheimer’s Association.
Tell us a little about yourself:
I’m a Registered Dietitian and chiropractor that started seeing patients in 2011. While I thoroughly enjoyed seeing patients, I took a research position at Rush University in 2019 to further understand and conduct research. I don’t think people have to choose lifestyle or convention medicine, but likely combinations of both will result in optimal outcomes.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
I fly stunt kites which is more fun than it might sound.
Why did you choose to work in dementia?
I helped a couple of family friends as they navigated dementia. It made me realize the prevalence and need to talk about all the facets and different types of needs. Their relatives were also desperate for prevention tips and came to me because they knew about my lifestyle medicine interests. I didn’t know a lot then, but I had heard of the MIND diet. Soon after, I saw a position opening at Rush to work in research with the MIND diet. I was already considering a career shift into research, and it felt like everything aligned for me to take the next step.
What single piece of advise would you give to an early career researcher?
Find people that have the time and desire to answer questions to form a supportive network. Time is precious, but there are people willing to guide you on your journey.
What book are you reading right now? Would you recommend it?
Heartbreaker: A Memoir by Mike Campbell with Ari Surdoval [2]. I recommend it only if you like Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and the earlier rock and roll that helped shape them.
Favourite film of all time?
Currently: A Face in the Crowd (1957)
Favourite ways to unplug and unwind?
Walking, skiing, or riding my bike through forest preserves.
What’s the best decision you ever made?
Made a conscious decision to stay open to new ideas, conversations, and activities.
What’s your favourite vacation spot?
Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada
Do you collect anything?
Too many things! Video game consoles and games, bells, and I suppose textbooks at this point.