Human Nutrition - MSc

London Metropolitan University

This module focuses on the fundamental concepts of nutrition science and human metabolism. It addresses the functional roles of energy and macro- and micronutrients (and non-nutrients) and explores the physiological influences on energy and nutrient demands across the lifespan and in altered nutritional states.

This module develops the student skills in conducting research in food & nutritional sciences with experience in critical evaluation of literature, study design, data collection, data analysis and interpretation.

This module provides students with an understanding of the methods available for assessing nutritional status of individuals, groups and populations. It aims to enhance student’s critical evaluation of the assessment of nutritional status at a population level using available published data. The module examines the derivation of nutrient reference values, their strengths and limitations. UK’s nutritional surveillance systems are analysed and evaluated. This will be approached within a context of applying statistical analysis to investigate the dietary and nutrient patterns of the UK population and subgroups. The methods applied to gather surveillance data will be critically scrutinised.

This module focuses on the critical evaluation of dietary assessment methodologies and their use for individuals and specified population groups. There is also a critical evaluation of DRVs (dietary recommended values), food composition databases and laboratory analysis of nutrient intake. The module also involves the critical appraisal of nutrition epidemiological studies and how to interpret and evaluate the evidence for diet-disease relationships, particularly for chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer to inform public health policy.

This module aims to develop a critical understanding of the rationale for and the formulation, implementation and limitations of food, nutrition and obesity policies, in local, national and international contexts. The content of this module will draw upon prior knowledge and practical experience in basic food and nutrition science.

This module aims to develop a critical understanding of the application and limitations of nutritional public health initiatives, in a national and international context. You will develop knowledge of the major national and international public health bodies and their aim(s), field(s) of influence, terms of reference and sources of funding. Students will also develop practical skills in communication to enable them to design and present nutritionally balanced diets to meet the needs of individuals, propose epidemiological studies and evaluate nutrition initiatives in public health. The module focuses on the factors which affect the nutritional needs of individuals and communities. The effects of the social determinants on health inequity are examined. Overnutrition, food insecurity and the association of deprivation on health are explored in detail. The impact religious practices, cultural beliefs on accessing healthcare, and their impact on dietary intake is investigated. The theories of behaviour change and their application is considered and scrutinised in relation to improving nutrition. The module offers training on the role of the UK Health Security Agency, Public Health Outcomes Framework, the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment and the Health and Wellbeing Strategies. Public health initiatives to reduce inequalities in health are examined and critically evaluated. Experts in the nutrition arena from governmental, non-governmental organisations, charities, the food industry and The Association of Nutrition are also invited as external speakers.

The aims of this module are to allow the learner to undertake a detailed piece of original research either by the empirical collection of data or an original secondary analysis of existing data.