Nutrition
7 courses · San Diego Mesa College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
NUTR 150 Nutrition Science and Global Food Issues
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This introductory course explores the biological, chemical, ecological, socioeconomic, and political factors that influence nutrition, including global problems of food and nutrition. Topics include the digestion, absorption, transport, metabolism, and storage of nutrients; the role of the gut microbiota; and how endocrine and immune systems shape hunger, appetite, and metabolic health. The course also examines the interactions between nutrients, genetics, and the environment. Students critically examine diverse eating patterns in the context of disease prevention, nutritional needs throughout the life span, and healthful food sources for essential nutrients and food groups. They also utilize computer technology to analyze dietary intake and evaluate nutritional status. Current topics in nutrition are critiqued using the scientific method. This course is intended for students majoring in nutrition, exercise science, dietetics, nursing, medicine, as well as anyone interested in deepening their understanding of health and nutrition science.
NUTR 153 Cultural Foods
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course examines the regional, ethnic, cultural, religious, historical and social influences on food patterns and cuisine, as well as how food is viewed as an expression of cultural diversity. Traditional foods of geographic areas and cultures, geographic factors in food availability, global food issues, dietary habits, religious influences and an overview of nutritional problems of ethnic groups are discussed and assessed. Connection is drawn between major historical events and how and why these events affected and defined the culinary traditions of different societies. Also presented are nutrition consequences of ethnic food choices, sanitation and safety practices, and applications of food and nutrition services. This course is for students interested in a career in nutrition, culinary, hospitality management, and those with an interest in ethnic cuisine.
NUTR 155 Advanced Nutrition
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- NUTR 150 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent and BIOL 107 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent and CHEM 100 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent and CHEM 100L with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent or CHEM 152 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent and CHEM 152L with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Advisory
- ENGL C1000 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is an in-depth study of the functioning of nutrients in the basic life processes from a biochemical and cellular approach. Emphasis is placed on the investigation of certain diets in relation to disease, current legislation relating to nutritional issues, and consumer nutritional practices. This course is intended for Nutrition and Allied Health majors.
NUTR 160 Foods for Healthy Lifestyles
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course emphasizes scientific concepts of nutrition and food relating to health promotion. Health benefits and food sources of nutrients, healthy food preparation and food technologies are discussed. This class is intended for students majoring in nutrition and all students interested in attaining or promoting good health through nutrition.
NUTR 170 Nutrition and Fitness
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course is a practical study of sports and nutrition. Emphasis is placed on the role of nutrition and enhanced performance. Students evaluate their nutritional needs during various stages of exercise. Topics include carbohydrate loading, use of supplements, determination of body composition. This course is intended for nutrition majors, athletes and all students interested in health and fitness.
NUTR 180 Nutrition and Diet Therapy
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Advisory
- ENGL C1000 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is a study of the concepts of nutrition in relationship to diet therapy. Emphasis is placed on nutrition assessments of individuals with various diseases and/or conditions and related therapeutic diets. Topics include nutritional support for patients who cannot or will not eat and drug/nutrient interactions. This course is intended for nutrition and allied health majors.
NUTR 270 Work Experience
- Units
- 1-4
- Hours
- 54 - 216 hours other
A program of on-the-job learning experiences for students employed in a job related to nutrition. One unit of credit may be earned for every 54 hours of work experience. A maximum of fourteen credit hours for all work experience subject areas may be earned during one enrollment period.