Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center

Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center ACNC researches maternal-child nutrition and physical activity to understand health and development.

The Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center (ACNC) is a growing and vibrant research center focusing on improving child health and optimizing function throughout development. The faculty and scientific staff are dedicated to discovering the fundamental biology of childhood brain and metabolic processes, and the mechanisms by which diet and physical activity (both maternal and child) impact these netw

orks. The ACNC is a national Human Nutrition Research Center established as a partnership between the Arkansas Children’s Hospital (ACH) and the United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS). Since its inception in 1994, the ACNC has become a premier research venue for the study of maternal-child health and early childhood development. Its location in Little Rock benefit from a supportive community and strong collaborative ties with the Arkansas Children’s Research Institute and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

Pregnant in Arkansas? You may be eligible for the GEM Study at Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center and UAMS. Researcher...
07/08/2026

Pregnant in Arkansas?

You may be eligible for the GEM Study at Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center and UAMS. Researchers are studying how everyday health tools and brief health education may help support healthy pregnancy weight gain.

Eligible participants may receive up to $300 for completing all study visits as a thank you for your time and commitment.

Contact us to find out if you qualify: 501-364-3309 or [email protected]


Discover how researchers at the Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center are studying how everyday health habits during pregnancy may influence maternal health.

06/19/2026

Today, we honor Juneteenth – a powerful milestone in our nation’s history.

On June 19, 1865, freedom was proclaimed in Texas, marking the emancipation of the last enslaved African Americans in the U.S.

While the 13th Amendment later formally abolished slavery, Juneteenth remains a symbol of liberation, resilience and hope.

At Arkansas Children’s, we proudly recognize and celebrate Juneteenth as part of our commitment to creating a welcoming environment for everyone.

🔬 A Window Into Research at ACNCHave you ever wondered how researchers learn about fitness and health in children?One wa...
06/15/2026

🔬 A Window Into Research at ACNC

Have you ever wondered how researchers learn about fitness and health in children?

One way is through a bicycle fitness test! 🚲

During this assessment, children ride a stationary bike while the resistance gradually increases. As they pedal, our research team measures how their heart, lungs, and muscles work together during exercise.

Participants wear a special mask that helps us understand how their bodies use oxygen and energy while they ride. Throughout the test, children tell us how hard they feel they are working using a simple scale with numbers and pictures.

Every pedal helps researchers learn more about children's health, growth, and physical fitness.

🔥 Feedback That Fuels Us 🔥"Great experience. Everyone is so kind and helpful."At ACNC, we strive to create a welcoming a...
06/12/2026

🔥 Feedback That Fuels Us 🔥

"Great experience. Everyone is so kind and helpful."

At ACNC, we strive to create a welcoming and supportive experience for every family who participates in our studies.

Hearing feedback like this means the world to our team. Thank you for trusting us and being part of research that helps improve the health and well-being of children and families.

💙 Your words, our motivation.

Are you less than 37 weeks pregnant? Join Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center breastfeeding research study to evaluate ...
06/11/2026

Are you less than 37 weeks pregnant?

Join Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center breastfeeding research study to evaluate breastfeeding support programs! Participate in 13 study visits over 2 years and you may receive $100 along with a 1.5-year supply of diapers as a thank you for your time.

Contact us to learn more 📞501-364-3309 | 📧[email protected]


☀️ Wellness Wednesday ☀️School may be out for summer, but it's a great time to keep kids moving!Regular physical activit...
06/10/2026

☀️ Wellness Wednesday ☀️

School may be out for summer, but it's a great time to keep kids moving!

Regular physical activity helps support healthy growth, builds strong bones and muscles, improves mood, and creates opportunities for family fun.

This June, challenge your family to find a new way to be active together:
🚲 Go for a bike ride
🌳 Visit a local park
💦 Play outside with water toys
🚶 Take an evening family walk
⚽ Kick a ball around in the backyard
🥾 Explore a nature trail

Remember, physical activity doesn't have to be complicated. Every opportunity to move, play, and explore counts!

How is your family staying active this summer? Share your favorite activities in the comments below! ⬇️

Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center has a community-based exercise research study for expecting women who are less than...
06/09/2026

Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center has a community-based exercise research study for expecting women who are less than 15 weeks pregnant with a BMI over 30.

Study will last throughout pregnancy and 1-year following delivery. Monetary and non-monetary compensation provided.

Contact us to find out if you qualify:
📞501-364-3309
or
📧[email protected]

📸 A look inside a study visit at ACNC!We loved having Mary visit the Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center! These photos ...
06/09/2026

📸 A look inside a study visit at ACNC!

We loved having Mary visit the Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center! These photos capture a few moments from her study visit and the fun, learning, and teamwork that make research possible.

Families like Mary's play an important role in helping us better understand child health and nutrition. We are grateful for every participant who chooses to spend time with our team and contribute to research that helps us learn more about supporting healthy growth and development.

Thank you, Mary and family, for being part of our research community! 💙

⭐ Feedback Friday ⭐At the Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, every study visit is an opportunity to learn, grow, and ...
06/06/2026

⭐ Feedback Friday ⭐

At the Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, every study visit is an opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference together. Hearing from our participants reminds us why this work matters.

💬 "It was a great experience. Wonderful staff!"

Thank you to the families who partner with us in research and trust us to be part of their journey. Your feedback fuels us and inspires our team every day.

Are you pregnant or know someone who is?The Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center is currently enrolling participants in ...
06/05/2026

Are you pregnant or know someone who is?

The Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center is currently enrolling participants in pregnancy research studies. By participating, you can contribute to research that helps us better understand maternal and infant health and supports discoveries that benefit families for years to come.

As a thank you for your time, participants may be paid.

To learn more:
📞 (501) 364-3309
📧 [email protected]

Help us spread the word by sharing this post with expectant parents in your community.

ACNC is a partnership between Arkansas Children's and the USDA-Agricultural Research Service, in collaboration with the Arkansas Children's Research Institute and UAMS

Address

15 Children's Way
Little Rock, AR
72202

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

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