NTRN1 - Intro to Nutrition Science

This course introduces the theoretical foundations of nutrition science by examining the biochemical, physiological, and molecular mechanisms underlying human nutrition and health. Students integrate scientific principles from biology, biochemistry, microbiology, and public health to understand nutrient function from cellular to systemic levels. This course emphasizes scientific methodology and evidence-based analysis of macronutrient and micronutrient metabolism, energy systems, and physiological regulation. Students examine theoretical frameworks underlying digestion, absorption, gut microbiota interactions, and the pathophysiology of nutrition-related diseases. Course content includes the scientific basis of dietary guidelines, emerging research in nutrigenomics, epigenetics, food safety principles, and contemporary issues in food systems and nutrition equity from research-based theoretical perspectives.