Daniel C. Benyshek
Biography
Daniel C. Benyshek has more than 20 years of experience in medical anthropology. His research focuses on aspects of health and disease which are significantly affected by maternal nutrition. One line of research in this area explores key maternal dietary factors during pregnancy that are associated with the increase of obesity-related health disorders around the world.
Benyshek also studies the emerging practice of human postpartum consumption of the placenta and the potential health benefits and risks this practice may yield for both mother and child. Benyshek has authored numerous academic and professional publications spanning topics on diabetes, obesity, human placentophagy, and maternal nutrition and health.
Education
- Ph.D., Medical Anthropology, Arizona State University
- M.A., Anthropology, Arizona State University
- B.A., Anthropology, University of Colorado
Daniel C. Benyshek In The News
Articles Featuring Daniel C. Benyshek

UNLV Newsmakers 2022: June
A collection of news stories highlighting UNLV experts who made headlines locally, nationally, and around the world.

UNLV Study: Placenta Consumption Offers Few Benefits for New Moms
Research finds that consuming encapsulated placentas has little to no effect on postpartum mood and maternal bonding; detectable changes shown in hormones.

UNLV Study Finds No Iron Benefit from Eating Placenta
First clinical study of its kind finds no benefit for women who eat their placenta as a source of needed iron after giving birth.

Steamed, Dehydrated or Raw: Placentas May Help Moms’ Post-Partum Health
UNLV anthropology survey examines why women consume their placentas after childbirth.