Certificate in Nutrition, Chronic Disease, and Health Promotion

The Politics of Food

Food production and politics are intimately connected. Decisions about what foods are produced, how they are produced, how food and animals are treated, as well as the personal connections related to food are complex and challenging. Food subsidies, school lunch programs, human and animal rights, the environmental consequences of food choices, and ultimately the health of all humans and other beings are all influenced by politics, lobbyists, and informed consumers.

The outcome of this course is for the learner to describe how politics influences the production, treatment, management, and delivery of food in the United States; and how political influences surrounding food ultimately affect the health and well-being of individuals, other beings, communities, and the planet.

Hunger and Malnutrition

Almost 800 million people in the world are suffering from hunger and malnutrition. Most of these individuals live in developing countries. However, there are millions more in developed countries who go to bed each night hungry. Children are the most visible victims of malnutrition. Paradoxically, the world produces enough food to feed everyone. So why does hunger exist? There are many causes and perhaps with an understanding of these causes and a commitment to solutions, hunger and malnutrition can be prevented.

The outcome of this course is for the learner to describe the causes, symptoms, treatment, and strategies for preventing hunger and malnutrition.

Genetically Engineered (Modified) Foods—Safe or Sinister?

Genetically engineered ("GE") or genetically modified ("GM") foods are foods with foreign genes (genes from other plants, animals, or substances) inserted into their genetic codes. While the debate continues, most experts agree there is no consensus on the safety of genetically modified foods. Organizations aligned with the chemical/biotechnology industry provide claims of safety while numerous other healthcare organizations request transparency, clear labeling, and long-term studies on health effects.

The outcome of this course is for the learner to describe what genetically engineered foods are, how they are developed, the national and international issues surrounding their use, and potential risks and benefits associated with them.

Food and Mood: What's the Connection?

"You are what you eat!" How often have most of us heard this phrase? While it may be a common saying, it remains a very true one for many good reasons. Food has the ability to affect our bodies and minds in profound ways. It can influence how we feel, think, sleep, and function every day. By choosing healthy, nutrient-dense, calorie-appropriate, organic foods and drinking adequate amounts of water, we provide ourselves with optimal opportunities to experience positive physical and mental health.

The outcome of this course is for the learner to describe how food affects one's mood, the types of nutrients that can improve or enhance mental health, types of eating disorders, and how to incorporate mindful eating as a way of supporting positive mental health.

Foodborne Diseases

Foodborne diseases affect 10% of the world's population every year, equivalent to millions of individuals across the globe. These diseases can cause extremely uncomfortable short-term health problems and very serious long-term health consequences, including permanent disabilities and death. Virtually all foodborne diseases are preventable with proper food handling and preparation techniques.

The outcome of this course is for the learner to describe the extent and causes of foodborne illnesses; types of foodborne illnesses; long-term consequences of foodborne illnesses; at-risk populations; and methods of diagnosing, treating, and preventing foodborne diseases.

How Safe Is Your Water?

According to the World Health Organization, access to safe water is essential to health and a basic human right. Yet globally, unsafe water causes millions of deaths from diarrhea, malaria, malnutrition, and drowning. The United States has one of the safest water supplies in the world, but national statistics do not tell individuals about the quality and safety of the water coming out of their own taps. In addition, more and more reports are surfacing about contaminants in the U.S. water supply. Healthcare professionals play an important role in preventing waterborne illness and in educating the public about potential health risks related to exposure to microbial and chemical contaminants in drinking water.

The outcome of this course is for the learner to describe the scope of the issue of water safety, types of contaminants found in public drinking water, water-related diseases, guidelines for water safety, and the information healthcare providers need to know to effectively educate the public abo