Introduction to the Role of Nutrition in Human Health
Learn about the key relationships between food, nutrition, and human health in this free online human nutrition course.
The online human nutrition course will introduce you to the relationship between food, nutrition and health, and how the body digests, absorbs and utilizes nutrients. Start the course and learn about the classes of nutrients and their various food sources, the energy requirements in the body, and the causes, symptoms and dietary requirements for some diseases that affect the body.
Description
In this online course, you will learn about the relationship between food, and nutrition and the key role they play in maintaining human health. The course also covers how nutrients are utilized in the body, and the recommended dietary allowances.
The course begins by reviewing the various classes of nutrients, such as the classification and importance of carbohydrates in the diet, as well as the types of dietary fiber. Next, the course teaches you about the essential amino acids, and the types and health significance of protein. You’ll also learn about factors influencing energy needs, the roles of macronutrients, units of energy and components of energy requirements. Also covered are the basal metabolic rate (BMR), energy balance, and benefits and dietary sources of vitamins.
Finally, you will learn about the functions of major minerals as well as trace minerals in the body. This course will be of great interest to learners who want to understand the importance of food in maintaining health. Knowing the classes of nutrients your body needs and their food sources will help you learn to take care of your health. Start this course today and learn about the key relationships between food, nutrition, and human health.
Outcome
Having completed this course you will be able to:
- Identify the relationship between food, nutrition and health
- Discuss the different classes of nutrients needed by the body and digestion
- Explain recommended dietary allowance and importance to the body
- Examine the three macronutrients needed by the body; carbohydrates, proteins and lipids
- Identify the units of energy and energy requirements of an individual
- Discuss the seven major minerals and the nine trace minerals
- Explain the concept of balanced diet and various food groups
- Identify an appropriate guide for selecting adequate diet, food selection and meal planning
- Discuss food sanitation, hygiene and items needing particular attention
- Explain the therapeutic adaptation or modification of a normal diet
- Discuss the symptoms, causes and dietary treatment of various diseases
