Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit focuses on basic concepts in human nutrition. It will describe the role and function of macro and micronutrients essential for human health, their history of discovery, and relevance for the health of populations and individuals. The unit will include the clinical signs and symptoms of specific nutrient deficiency and excess, nutrient interactions and their significance, recommended dietary intakes and global epidemiology. It will cover methods used to assess food intake and data analysis by the use of food composition tables, patterns of restricted eating, diet myths and misconceptions and population specific nutritional issues.

Objectives

1. To develop an understanding of the role(s) of macro and micronutrients in the human body

2. To be able to identify foods which are rich sources of particular nutrients, and which foods are important sources of particular nutrients in specific diets

3. To be able to recognise the clinical signs and symptoms of particular nutrient deficiencies and excesses, and understand the reason for their development

4. To appreciate the strengths and weaknesses of different methods of assessing food intake and to critically assess the information derived from them

5. To appreciate the effects that nutrients may have on the absorption and utilization of other nutrients, and on medications

Assessment

Mid semester examination (2 hour): 20%
End of semester examination (3 hour): 50%
Assignments: 30%

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Andrea Bryce

Contact hours

3 hours per week (lectures and tutorials).