Course Description
Biology 210 introduces the fundamental principles of human nutrition and its relationship to health, disease, and performance. The course integrates biochemical, physiological, and molecular perspectives to help students understand how nutrients are digested, absorbed, metabolized, and utilized by the body. Emphasis is placed on evidencebased dietary recommendations, nutritional assessment techniques, and the influence of genetics and lifestyle on nutritional status.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Explain the structure, function, and metabolism of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals).
- Interpret biochemical pathways involved in energy production and nutrient utilization.
- Conduct basic nutritional assessments and evaluate dietary intake using validated tools.
- Analyze the role of nutrition in chronic disease prevention and management.
- Apply principles of nutrition to design balanced meal plans for diverse populations.
- Critically appraise scientific literature on nutrition topics.
- Communicate nutrition concepts effectively in written and oral formats.
Weekly Schedule
| Week | Topic | Readings | Assignments |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Nutrition Science | Chapter 1, Textbook | Course orientation quiz |
| 2 | Carbohydrate Structure & Metabolism | Chapter 2, Selected journal article | Problem set #1 |
| 3 | Protein Quality & Metabolism | Chapter 3 | Lab: Nitrogen balance |
| 4 | Lipid Chemistry & Digestion | Chapter 4 | Quiz 1 |
| 5 | Vitamins: Fatsoluble | Chapter 5 | Case study analysis |
| 6 | Vitamins: Watersoluble | Chapter 6 | Group presentation prep |
| 7 | Minerals & Trace Elements | Chapter 7 | Quiz 2 |
| 8 | Nutrition & Energy Balance | Chapter 8 | Midterm exam |
| 9 | Digestive System Physiology | Chapter 9 | Lab: Enzyme activity |
| 10 | Nutrition Through the Life Cycle | Chapter 10 | Discussion board post |
| 11 | Sports Nutrition | Chapter 11 | Mealplan assignment |
| 12 | Nutrition & Chronic Disease | Chapter 12 | Quiz 3 |
| 13 | Genetics & Nutrigenomics | Selected review article | Group presentation |
| 14 | Public Health Nutrition | Chapter 13 | Policy brief draft |
| 15 | Course Review & Final Exam Preparation | Review packet | Final exam |
Assessment & Grading
Grades are based on the following weighted components:
- Quizzes (3 total) 15%
- Midterm Exam 20%
- Final Exam 25%
- Laboratory reports 10%
- Problem sets & assignments 15%
- Group presentation & participation 10%
- Class participation 5%
Course Policies
Attendance
Regular attendance is expected. More than three unexcused absences may affect the participation grade.
Academic Integrity
All work must be original. Instances of plagiarism or cheating will be reported to the Office of Academic Conduct and may result in a failing grade for the assignment or the course.
Accommodations
Students requiring accommodations should contact the Disability Services Office as early as possible. Documentation will be needed to arrange appropriate support.
Resources & Recommended Texts
- Whitney, E., & Rolfes, S. (2023). Understanding Nutrition (15th ed.). Cengage Learning.
- American Society for Nutrition (ASN) nutrition.org
- National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements: ods.od.nih.gov
- University Library Access to journals such as The Journal of Nutrition and Nutrition Reviews.
- Online labs: bioedonline.org
