Sport and Exercise Nutrition

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

1. Explain and evaluate the roles and functions of macro and micronutrients and their requirements for health and in exercise.
2. Evaluate the basic role that nutrition plays in optimising health and improving sport and exercise performance and how this can affect body composition.
3. Use analytical techniques to assess and monitor nutritional intake and performance.

This module offers the opportunity for students to become familiarised with concepts related to sport and exercise nutrition. The module provides students with a knowledge of all major aspects of nutrition as they are related to the sport and exercise domain. This will include the manner in which nutrition plays a part in maintaining homeostasis and how nutrition impacts on sport and exercise performance. The exploration of theoretical concepts will be supplemented by additional laboratory sessions, which will assess the effects of nutrition on a range of physiological functions. The data collection will be utilised to develop competencies within the laboratory and the analysis will allow for the interpretation of data.

To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the role of nutrition in sport, exercise, and health. To develop skills in dietary assessment, nutritional planning, and evidence-based strategies to optimise performance and recovery.

Indicative content:
Gastric emptying digestion and absorption
CHO 1- metabolism pre/post exercise
CHO 2- During, short duration and limits to oxidation
Protein 1 turnover and synthesis, guidelines
Protein 2 – pre/during/post exercise
Fat –training on metabolism/enhancing oxidation
Fluid intake guidelines during exercise/dehydration and performance
Micronutrients, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phenols
Dietary supplements

This module is at CQFW Level 5