Introduction to Human Nutrition and Food

Unit code: HPC1000 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
City Campus
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
N/A
Overview
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Overview

Students will be introduced to foods and food groups, the nutrients they provide, and the Australian dietary recommendations for adult human health. This will include gaining an understanding of the sources, role and function of the macronutrients (protein, fat and carbohydrate), key micronutrients, fibre and fluid, as well as the digestion, absorption and metabolism of the macronutrients. Students will be introduced to the concepts of energy balance and the role of diet in maintaining this balance.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate an awareness of the evidence based Australian dietary and nutritional recommendations for adults;
  2. Describe the sources, role and function of the macronutrients (protein, fat and carbohydrate), key micronutrients, fibre and fluid, as well as the digestion, absorption and metabolism of the macronutrients;
  3. Describe the concept of energy balance and the role of diet in maintaining this balance; and
  4. Apply appropriate academic communication skills relevant to nutrition and food.

Study as a single unit

This unit can be studied on its own, without enrolling in a full degree.

Learn more about single units of study at VU

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 20%
Two (2) Quizzes (20 minutes each)
Assessment type: Case Study
|
Grade: 40%
Case Study Part A Excel analysis (250 words equivalence); Part B Written report (500 words)
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 40%
Group Presentation (10 minutes) includes oral presentation (35%) and peer assessment (5%)

Required reading

RECOMMENDED TEXTS: Whitney, E. N., Rolfes, S. R., & Crowe, T & Walsh, A. (2022). Understanding nutrition (5th Australian & New Zealand edition). South Melbourne, Victoria: Cengage Learning.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Dermal Sciences
HBDS | Bachelor degree | Duration: 4 years
Bachelor of Health Science
HBHL | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years
Bachelor of Human Nutrition
HBNT | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years
Bachelor of Nutritional Science/Master of Dietetics
HCND | Bachelor degree | Duration: 4.5 years
Undergraduate Certificate in Diet and Health
HUDH | Undergraduate certificate | Duration: 0.5 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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