CU Nutrition Expert Who Took Coca-Cola Money Steps Down

A University of Colorado nutrition expert who accepted hundreds of thousands of dollars from Coca-Cola Co. is stepping down from his executive director position at the university's wellness center.

James Hill announced his resignation from the Anschutz Health and Wellness Center Friday. He said in a statement he intends to continue his own research in obesity and weight management.

Hill faced criticism last year after the New York Times reported that Coca-Cola helped fund the Global Energy Balance Network he headed. The network emphasized physical activity over calorie reduction for losing weight.

The Denver Post reports that Hill accepted $550,000 from Coke and sought a job for his son with the company. A Coca-Cola spokesman said the money paid for honoraria, travel, education activities and weight management research.