Aims

To provide an in-depth understanding of the fundemental aspects of human nutrition including the scientific bases for setting nutrient recommendations. Through this module, students will gain a sound understanding of the relationship between nutrient intake and the maintenance of health in humans and an insight into research methods used in human nutrition research.

Outline Of Syllabus

1) Metabolism and biochemical roles of nutrients with a major focus on micronutrients
2) Nutritional surveillance and markers of nutritional status
3) Dietary reference values: methods for determining requirements including those which take a fundamental approach
4) Role of body composition as a modulator of nutrient metabolism and requirements
5) Risk assessment framework for setting DRVs and UL's for nutrients
6) Influence of genotype in determining the individual response to food and nutrients

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

This module will use lectures and tutorials to deliver key information relevant to understanding the fundamental aspects of human nutrition including the bases for nutritional recommendations.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The exams test the ability to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of specific aspects of human nutrition in short answers during the Module and in the final exam to be able to integrate information from the lectures and additional reading into clear, well argued essays.