Nutrition Across the Lifespan

This unit examines how the endocrine and excretory systems interact with nutritional status and how nutrient needs change from conception through older adulthood. Students build on foundational anatomy and nutrition concepts to assess, plan, and adapt dietary interventions for prenatal, pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations in preparation for clinical application.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the functions of the endocrine and excretory systems and their impact on nutrient metabolism, fluid balance, and clinical signs of imbalance.
• Apply evidence-based prenatal and postnatal nutrition guidelines to develop individualized maternal and infant nutrition plans, including supplementation and risk-reduction strategies.
• Demonstrate assessment and education techniques for infants, children, and adolescents—using growth monitoring, dietary analysis, and culturally responsive counseling to address common pediatric nutrition issues.
• Evaluate nutritional risks and appropriate dietary modifications for middle-aged and older adults, considering chronic disease prevention, medication-nutrient interactions, and age-related physiological changes.