From the athlete seeking a sporting edge to the obese individual seeking a more healthy bodyweight, the manipulation of dietary intake is common. This module is concerned with the science underpinning a range of common dietary practices including vitamin supplements, vegetarianism, protein intake and diets for weight loss. The module will include a weighed dietary survey so students can study their own diet.

Manipulating nutritional intake is widespread whether it be the elite athlete seeking a performance edge through vitamin supplementation or the overweight person choosing a protein-heavy diet to lose weight. This module is designed to give students a rational, scientific approach to the consideration of a set of common dietary manipulations. In this way they will develop a base of knowledge along with skills in evaluating evidence.

Vitamin and mineral supplementation, the special place of iron in sport and exercise nutrition, protein and amino acid requirements for strength development, vegetarianism, weight loss. Underpinning scientific frameworks concerning energy balance, protein pool, selected aspects of biochemistry, reference nutrient intakes. Practicals will include a weighed dietary survey and computer-aided analysis.