Type of course

Course content

Micronutrients are vitamins and minerals essential to life. However, in large amounts, they can be toxic and harmful. ERN-2012 will provide basic- and evidence-based knowledge about these compounds, their nutritional sources, digestion, uptake, metabolism, functions, deficiencies, toxicity, and importance to human health. We will also introduce nutrition-related analytical methods.

During this course, the students will learn to assess the intake of micronutrients according to the recommendations for healthy individuals and how to provide relevant advice on food choices based on these assessments.

The course will provide a solid foundation for learning more about the relationship between diet and diseases.

Included is a clinical practice placement and/or a simulated counseling session.

Recommended prerequisites

Objectives of the course

After completing this course, the students should be able to:

Knowledge

• Explain the scientific basis of the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations (NNR) and define and use key concepts described in the NNR
• Explain the absorption, bioavailability, metabolism, functions, recommendations of the micronutrients, and the consequences of an inadequate or excessive intake

Skills

• Evaluate the intake of vitamins and minerals in individuals and groups
• Evaluate biochemical assessments of micronutrient status and describe factors that may influence the quality and interpretation of the data
• Identify people at risk of deficiencies or excessive intakes of micronutrients and provide personalized research-based advice to correct their state
• Communicate the health effects of vitamins and minerals
• Critically evaluate advertisements and health claims of vitamins
• Carry out dietary assessments

Competence

• Apply knowledge and skills of micronutrients when offering dietary advice
• Apply knowledge and skills about micronutrients in education and research and in preventive health work
• Apply critical thinking skills

Language of instruction and examination

Teaching methods