Human Nutrition and Metabolism

Course Outline: Human Nutrition and Metabolism

Course Responsible: Theodoros Goulas

The course aims to introduce students to the basic concepts of the processes of digestion,

absorption, bioavailability and metabolism of macro- and micro-nutrients. It also refers to

introductory concepts of the interaction between nutrients and intermediate products of

metabolism.

Finally, the aim of the course is for students to understand the integration of energy

metabolism, the body’s reaction to lack of food, the effect of exercise on metabolism,

oxidative and antioxidant processes and the connection between nutrition and the

metabolism of macro- and micro -nutrients with the functioning of body organs.

Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:

Know the basic terminology of nutrition and metabolism processes
Understand how the human body responds to food and nutrients it takes in.
Understand the mechanisms of digestion, absorption, bioavailability and metabolism of
carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, lipoproteins, vitamins and trace elements
Understand the body’s ability to regulate homeostasis through regulators balancing
mechanisms
Understand the connection of nutrients with the development of chronic diseases, such as
obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, etc.