85030 - Human Nutrition

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the course, students understand the role of food components in maintaining good health. Students are able to evaluate the preventive effects of foods and diet.

Course contents

1. Bioactive Components of Foods

Definition and Classification of Bioactive Components

Bioavailability

Relationship with Health and Disease Risk

Antioxidant Bioactive Components

Bioactive Peptides

Prebiotics and Probiotics

Other Bioactive Components

2. Novel Foods: Functional Foods and Food Supplements

Functional Foods: Definition and Classification, Formulation, Health Significance

Food Supplements: Definition, Classification, and Specific Legislation

3. Nutritional and Health Claims: EU Regulation

4. Food-Genome Interaction

Nutrigenetics

Nutrigenomics

Nutriepigenetics

Readings/Bibliography

• Mariani Costantini A., Cannella C., Tomassi G. “Alimentazione e Nutrizione Umana” Il Pensiero Scientifico Editore

Teaching materials (slides, scientific articles, links to specific websites, legislation) are provided during the course.

Teaching methods

Ex-cathedra lectures

During the lectures, the significance of functional foods and food supplements as providers not only of nutrients but also of bioactive substances will be explained. The role of nutrients and bioactive substances in oxidative stress and in their interaction with the human genome will be assessed. EU regulations regarding the use of nutritional and health claims will be explained.

Assessment methods

Assessment will be based on an oral exam at the end of the lessons. The following will be assessed: knowledge of the topics covered in the program, ability to apply the acquired notions, critical analysis skills, ability to connect the topics in a logical-deductive way, use of correct language and adequate technical terminology, in-depth knowledge of a topic through the study of material proposed for further study by the teacher.

The oral exam (for which registration is required on almaesami) will consist of two/three questions. The grade will be expressed out of 30 (minimum 18/30, maximum 30/30 with honors).

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

Teaching tools

Video projector, PC, overhead projector.

All materials projected during class are provided to students. Additional materials available online will be indicated in class.

Office hours

See the website of Alessandra Bordoni