The Metabolic Matrix

Re-engineering ultra-processed foods to protect the liver, feed the gut, and support the brain — for better metabolic health.

A peer-reviewed, tiered framework with 39 evidence-based criteria. Commissioned by KDD with independent team of scientists and experts including Dr. Robert Lustig.

Brain-Gut-Liver Axis Diagram

Metabolic Matrix Framework

The metabolic matrix consists of 3 essential progressive tiers to evaluate and then improve products, ensure products are delicious and metabolically positive.

Harm reduction

Lower or remove ingredients that negatively impact metabolic health, without compromising product enjoyment.

Fortification

Enrich products with functional nutrients that actively support gut, liver, and brain function.

Value addition

Transform products to deliver superior metabolic benefits while enhancing flavor, quality, and overall wellness impact.

Read the full methods paper:

The 3 Pillars of Metabolic Health

A holistic approach to wellness through interconnected systems

Liver icon

Support the Brain

  • Through nutrient-dense foods
  • With healthy and brain-essential fats
  • With healthy proteins providing sufficient and appropriate amino acids
  • With “brain-selective” nutrients which help govern neurotransmitter function
Gut icon

Feed the Gut

  • Reduce processed carbohydrates
  • Whole intact food (cellular) matrix
  • Provide prebiotic nourishment (Soluble fiber & Insoluble fiber)
  • Replace probiotic nourishment (gut microbiota)
Liver icon

Protect the Liver

  • Fructose reduction
  • Reduce total sugar intake
  • Appropriate hydration
  • Reduce environmental toxins
  • Reduce glycemic load

Scientific Evidence

Research backing the Metabolic Matrix framework

The Metabolic Matrix (Methods Paper, 2023)

Resources & Presentations

Access materials to learn and share the Metabolic Matrix

About

Funded by Kuwaiti Danish Dairy Company (KDD). The Metabolic Matrix is an open framework shared for industry, governments, and academia to prioritize metabolic health.

Key quote:
"We need to move from health being in the eye of the shareholder to health being in the eye of the metabolism."

– Sir Mohammad Jaafar, KDD Chairman & CEO
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