Alumni Spotlight: Michelle Moufawad, Medical Student, MS '22

Meet Michelle Moufawad - Medical Student Integrating Nutrition Science Into Clinical Medicine

Medical student at Central Michigan University College of Medicine

Michelle first discovered the Institute of Human Nutrition (IHN) while applying to medical school. Her passion for nutritional counseling, gut microbiome research, and preventative medicine inspired her to defer medical school for a year to ursue a master's degree at IHN.

During her time in the program, Michelle developed expertise in food accessibility, public health nutrition policy, and patient-centered care, preparing her to address social determinants of health in clinical practice. 

“I learned a lot about food accessibility and policy that I use daily in my interactions with patients. I really enjoy having honest conversations surrounding food and how to best nourish ourselves. Since graduating, I have given a lecture on diets and conducted research on eating disorders. I reference my time at the IHN every day in medical school and am excited to continue doing so in residency.”
— Michelle Moufawad

Q&A With Michelle

Is there a memory that stands out from your time at IHN? 

“I am so grateful to have worked with Dr. St-Onge in her lab. She is an incredible mentor and taught me a lot about research, scientific writing, and instilled in me a passion for research. Our weekly journal clubs were also incredibly helpful; I learned so much about sleep hygiene and regularly share the information with friends and patients in the hopes of improving their habits.”

What inspired you to pursue internal medicine and clinical nutrition? 

“I’ve always loved science and wanted a way to translate my passion into a career that would directly benefit others. My dad is also a physician and inspired me to pursue a career in medicine. I applied to internal medicine because I love the breadth of knowledge and freedom to explore different specialties. Plus, it gives me the opportunity to offer nutritional counseling to patients. At the moment, I am considering a career in gastroenterology and hope to continue researching the gut microbiome and uncover its secrets—it was the topic of my master’s thesis!”

What is growing in your field today?

“So many exciting things! With the increasing availability of GLP-1s, I have spent a lot of time discussing possible risks and diet modifications while on these medications. Regarding the gut microbiome, many studies are emerging on its interactions with the heart, brain, and liver. It’s really cool to see the microbiome as a possible 13th organ system!”

What skills are essential for success in modern medicine and nutrition-focused care?

“Determination, humility, and hobbies outside of medicine. The process of becoming a doctor is undoubtedly a challenge and requires a lot of grit and determination, but your hard work will pay off! On especially hard days, it helps to have a reminder of what drew you to medicine. For me, that includes reflecting on my patients and the impact I can have on their lives."

"The field of medicine is dauntingly expansive, and it feels impossible to know everything. Staying humble, getting comfortable with being wrong, and asking questions is the best way to learn. Lastly, have hobbies outside of medicine! I love cooking for friends and trying new recipes. It takes my mind off work and provides a delicious meal after a long day.”

Continuing Her Impact

Today, Michelle integrates her graduate training in nutrition science into clinical care, physician education, and interdisciplinary medical research. Her interdisciplinary perspective—grounded in behavioral science, nutrition, and medicine—embodies IHN’s mission to advance health through evidence-based practice.