Course Description
Effects of nutrition on physical performance, alterations in nutrient metabolism from increased activity, interaction of diet and exercise on aging and disease processes, training and competition diets examined. Prerequisite: Course work in biochemistry and physiology required, 531, 560, or equivalent courses, BIO 277.
Syllabus
Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:
Students successfully completing this course will be able to:
- Explain the metabolic pathways used during various forms of physical activity and sport.
- Explain the role of macro- and micro-nutrients in promoting physical performance.
- Discuss the role of diet and physical activity for altering body composition and in weight management.
- Identify the adverse effects of poor diet and exercise habits on overall health and physical performance.
- Critically examine the use of food and supplements as ergogenic aids.
- Plan quick and easy snacks/meals designed to meet specific training-related goals of athletes.
- Complete dietary assessment, identify nutritional needs, establish appropriate goals and design a balanced and nutritionally adequate dietary plan for athletes across different levels.
- Compare and contrast sports nutrition recommendations across types of athletes/sports.
- Analyze and critically review the literature related to dietary intake and physical performance.
Course Grading Information:
| Activity/Performance Measure | Percentage/Points |
|---|---|
| Assignment 1 (SLO 1, 2, 9) | 20 points |
| Assignment 2 (SLO 1-3, 9) | 20 points |
| Exam I (SLO 1, 2, 4, 8, 9) | 100 points |
| Exam II (SLO 1, 2-4, 8, 9) | 100 points |
| Group Project: Dietary Supplements (5, 8, 9) | 60 points |
| Case Study: Written Report (SLO 1-9) | 100 points |
| Class attendance, discussions & active participation | 50 points |
Specific instructions for each assignment will be provided on Canvas and/or in class. Assignments turned in late will have 10% points deducted per each day of tardiness (example: if an assignment was due on a Wednesday but turned in on a Friday, 20% of points will be automatically deducted from the total assignment points possible).
Grading Scale
| Percentage | Letter Grade |
|---|---|
| 90-100% | A |
| 80-89% | B |
| 70-79% | C |
| 60-69% | D |
| < 60% | F |
Attendance/Participation:
Attendance, participation and engagement during class will be assessed as part of the total grade.
Course Materials Purchased by the Students:
Sports Nutrition: A Handbook for Professional, 7th edition; Sports and Human Performance Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group Editor-in-Chief: Melissa L. Brown, PhD, RD, CSSD, LD; Assistant Editor: Hope Barkoukis, PhD, LD, FAND. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 2025.
Scholarly Perspectives
This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.