Studying nutrition and dietetics is more difficult than one may think, involving coursework that is commonly associated with a medical degree. Understanding the complex aspects of the human body as a functioning and resilient organism requires studying its physical and psychological components. A typical nutrition and dietetics curriculum includes courses in biology and chemistry, nutrition and medical nutrition therapy, food service management and consumer science.
Entering the World of Biology and Chemistry
Concepts that are covered in biology courses include the process of evolution, cellular functions, genetics and interactions between systems in living organisms. Chemistry courses examine elements, atoms and electron configurations. Organic compounds and chemical bonding that occur in food preparation are studied, along with acids, solutions and gases.
Considering the many factors that go into the presentation of a restaurant meal, potential students see things differently from others who simply enjoy a satisfying repast. Understanding how the chemistry of food affects human biology makes food preparation a complex task.
Tracing the Influence of Nutrition and Nutritional Therapy
Students who study nutrition and medical nutritional therapy examine food choices and health behaviors that include wellness, disease prevention, eating disorders, obesity and special programs for athletes. Consequences of diets that affect the occurrence of heart disease, diabetes and cancer are examined. Obesity, weight management and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract are subjects that are presented in class. Students who are interested in nutrition from a commercial standpoint may find additional points of interest when dining out. Focusing on the nutritional aspects of food gives students an understanding of the difference between food that tastes good and food that is good for the body.
Learning about Food Service Management
Learning how to put academic training into practical use that serves customers is an outcome of courses in food service management. Students learn how to estimate food consumption and to place orders for deliveries of meat, fruits, vegetables and beverages. Checking the content of delivered products and evaluating the quality of food contributes to consumer safety.
Sales representatives and restaurant suppliers need to have contact with food service managers to ensure a steady delivery of essential items that include consumables as well as pots and pans, plates, glasses, silverware and paper supplies. Students learn how to monitor an establishment for compliance with safety codes and how to comply with regulations regarding the sale of intoxicating beverages.
Understanding Consumer Science
In addition to nutrition, courses in consumer science include the study of human development and practical matters such as family and personal finance, apparel, textiles, housing and interior design. Formerly known as Home Economics, consumer science focuses on the relationship between people and their environment and nutrition and dietetics is considered crucial to any community’s sustainability.
Going out for dinner at a fine restaurant is a pleasure that most people enjoy on occasion, and the quality of food is usually the high point of the event. Students who examine the scientific aspects learn to respect the value of factors such as biology and chemistry, nutrition, food service management and consumer science. Studying nutrition and dietetics requires a commitment to understanding complex subjects that affect public health.
Related Resource: What is a Public Health Nutritionist?