Nutrition, the nutrients and metabolism, 7.5 credits

After completing the course the students should be able to: o Describe the physiological function and metabolism of the macronutrients. o Explain the energy metabolism and evaluate variations in energy demands due to physical activity level, age and gender as well as physiological and health status. o Describe the essential micronutrients; their physiological functions, bioavailability, mechanisms of absorption, metabolism, excretion and storage, food sources and relationship to the maintenance of health. o Describe causes and symptoms of malnutrition and define possible causes. o Describe the nutrient recommendations, the rationale for them and their application areas.

The key topics are taught in lectures followed by seminars and examined by a written exam. The topics include; introduction to the digestive system, the macro nutrients and the micro nutrients and their metabolism, energy metabolism and nutrient recommendations. This is integrated with discussions about risk groups, symptoms of deficiencies, food sources and supplements. An in-depth individual work regarding common nutrient deficiencies is perfomed during the course.

The course includes lectures, discussions, an individual assignment and student presentations.

The course is examined by a written examination at the end of the course. Compulsory participation: Seminars and presentations are compulsory. The course director assesses if and, in that case, how absence can be compensated. Limited number of examinations or practical training sessions: The student has the right to write the exam six times. The number of times that the student has participated in one and the same examination is regarded as an examination session. Submission of a blank examination is regarded as an examination. An examination for which the student registered but not participated in, will not be counted as an examination.