Module manager: Dr Laeticia Lichtenstein
Email: L.Lichtenstein@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
| FOOD1151 | Introduction to Human Nutrition |
Energy Metabolism and Cardiometabolic Diseases (FOOD2700) & Physiology II: (FOOD2260)
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module will take an in-depth look at the integrative nature of different organs and tissue systems involved in digestion, metabolism and storage of nutrients (e.g. liver, pancreas), with attention given to how these molecular pathways and physiological processes differ between nutritional states (e.g. fed vs. fasted) and changes in metabolic disease states (e.g. obesity, diabetes, NAFLD). You will also look at appetite regulation and advanced energy metabolism and balance, including the effects of energy restriction. The module will introduce key concepts relating to body weight and metabolic regulation and management, disparity between population groups, and current models of disease classification, prevention, and treatment. Through this, students will develop an understanding of the multifactorial origins of metabolic diseases, populations at high-risk of developing obesity and experiencing its consequences, associated co-morbidities, molecular pathways underpinning of disease progression and outcomes, and current inequalities (and future directions) for its prevention and treatment.
This module aims to:
1. Introduce students to the multi-faceted nature and complexity of metabolic diseases.
2. Discuss and apply appropriate methods required to accurately assess, measure and/or report on estimation of energy balance; energy expenditure; body mass; body composition; how body mass and energy balance are controlled.
3. Consider and critically appraise the underpinning network of molecular, physiological, and environmental modifiers of metabolism and body weight; models of disease; and current and prospective prevention and treatment options.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Describe the role of tissue-organs such as the liver, muscle and adipose tissue in nutrient uptake, storage and redistribution, and how such metabolism changes during the fed and fasted state.
2. Explain how nutrient metabolism is altered with metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and NAFLD/MAFLD.
3. Describe the role of the hepato-biliary system in the control of lipid and carbohydrate digestion and metabolism.
4. Explain the physiological regulation of blood glucose, regional blood flow, nutrient metabolism, and appetite and energy balance.
5. Discuss and apply appropriate methods to accurately assess, measure and/or report on estimation of energy balance; energy expenditure; body mass; body composition; how body mass and energy balance are controlled, including classification methods and models for defining obesity and related metabolic diseases.
6. Identify and critically evaluate prevention and treatment options for obesity with an aim to suggest options for implementation in novel settings, considering the multifactorial nature of obesity and the complexity of identifying a singular treatment option for all.
and apply to an individual a patient with diet advice
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
1. Technical skills: subject specific knowledge, i.e., theory identification, discussion and synthesis of evidence-based including research and application relevant to professional practice in nutrition
2. Academic skills: reflection, critical thinking, presentation skills, academic writing, academic language, time management, information searching, academic integrity, referencing (AS1-9)
3. Work ready skills: reflection, communication, time management, planning & organisation, teamwork/collaboration, problem-solving & analytical skills, leadership (initiative), creativity, critical thinking, interpersonal skills, research skills, active learning, cultural diversity (WR1-4,6-7,9-12,14, 19)
4. Digital skills: digital proficiency & productivity, information, data & media literacies, data creation, problem-solving & innovation (DS1-3)
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 12 | 2 | 24 |
| Practical | 1 | 3 | 3 |
| Private study hours | 173 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 27 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
In module feedback will be given via the use of lecture quizzes (e.g., Vevox) and online MCQ (delivered via Minerva) relating to weekly lecture content. One-to-one meetings between students and lecturing staff will also be offered on an ad hoc basis.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Group work / Oral assessment | 50 |
| Coursework | . | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated. If individual resit required for a group element then a reduced assessment commensurate with required work from individual will be set.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team