Faculty of Health Sciences · Nutrition and Dietetics · Undergraduate
Course Objective
The aim of this course is to provide knowledge on the composition, health effects, applications, and legal regulations of dietary supplements and functional foods. Students will learn to understand the physiological roles of functional components, evaluate the scientific basis of these products, and appropriately integrate them into nutrition plans. The course also aims to develop students’ critical thinking skills regarding the efficacy, safety, and ethical considerations of dietary supplements.
Course Content
This course covers the definition, classification, and production technologies of dietary supplements and functional foods, including bioactive compounds, probiotics, prebiotics, herbal supplements, and vitamin-mineral supplements. It also addresses their health effects, clinical evidence, regulations, labeling requirements, and consumer awareness.
Course Learning Outcomes
- Explain the physiological effects and mechanisms of functional components.
- Evaluate various functional foods and supplements based on scientific evidence.
- Develop awareness about the safety, efficacy, and ethical use of supplements.
- Explain current regulations and labeling principles.
- Define and classify dietary supplements and functional foods
Core Area Distribution
Teaching Methods
Assessment & Evaluation
ECTS / Workload
| Activity | Quantity | Duration (h) | Total Workload |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course Duration (Including Exam Week) | 16 | 2 | 32 |
| Out of Class Study Period | 16 | 2 | 32 |
| Midterm | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Quiz | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Assignment | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Practice | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Final | 1 | 7 | 7 |
Course Schedule
| Week | Subject | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Course introduction | Books and current articles on the subject |
| 2 | Definitions of Nutritional Supplements and Functional Foods, Classification of Functional Foods | Books and current articles on the subject |
| 3 | National and International Communiqués Regarding Functional Foods and Nutritional Supplements | Books and current articles on the subject |
| 4 | Phytochemicals I | Books and current articles on the subject |
| 5 | Phytochemicals II | Books and current articles on the subject |
| 6 | Phytochemicals III | Books and current articles on the subject |
| 7 | Official Holiday | Official Holiday |
| 8 | Phytochemicals IV | Books and current articles on the subject |
| 9 | Midterm Exam | Midterm Exam |
| 10 | Probiotic and prebiotic supplements | Books and current articles on the subject |
| 11 | Dietary Supplements | Books and current articles on the subject |
| 12 | Official Holiday | Official Holiday |
| 13 | Dietary Supplements: Vitamins, Minerals, Fatty Acids, and Student Presentations | Books and current articles on the subject |
| 14 | Student Presentations | Books and current articles on the subject |
| 15 | Student Presentations | Books and current articles related to the subject |
| 16 | Student Presentations | Books and current articles related to the subject |