The overall aim of the module is to gain a basic knowledge of nutrition and metabolism underpinning Sports Science. Students will be able to describe the flow of nutrient intake and energy production supporting not only training and performance but optimal health. The chemistry and role of both macro- and micronutrients will be described in terms of a balanced diet. We will examine the intake of food, digestion, absorption, assimilation or metabolism of nutrients, through to the sources of energy for different types of exercise and the causes of fatigue. The module provides a firm foundation from which to study, in later modules, exercise physiology and the specific nutritional requirements of athletes including legal and illegal substances.
Learning Outcomes:
To pass this module students will need to be able to:
1. describe the principles of a balanced diet and outline the nutritional requirements of sportspeople;
2. describe the structure and function of the digestive system.
3. describe the chemistry, digestion, assimilation and role of the macronutrients;
4. describe the nature, distribution and roles of the micronutrients;
5. outline the metabolic pathways involved in energy metabolism;
6. explain how these pathways are integrated and regulated in the context of exercise;
7. describe the sources of energy and causes of fatigue in different types of exercise;
8. demonstrate competence in data presentation, analysis and interpretation, numeracy, information retrieval and written communication.
- Module Supervisor: Christopher McManus