Identifies food constituents (macro and micro-nutrients, phytonutrients) that can help prevent or treat disease. Describes how modern processed foods can adversely impact health. Outlines the major benefits of healthy eating related to immune function, aging, gastrointestinal (GI) functions, and cognition. Explains the role of nutrigenomics and personalized nutrition in optimizing gene activity or expression. Describes how nutrition myths, pseudoscience, and an obsession with “clean eating” can compromise health and lead to orthorexia. Outlines how the information in this course can be used to improve patient care outcomes. Describes, based on the information presented, the implications for dentistry, mental health, pharmacy, nursing, dentistry, occupational, and physical therapy, and other health professionals.

Outlines the homeostatic and hedonic pathways that interact to regulate food consumption. Describes the neurobiology of overeating, altered brain structures and changes in chemical signaling that contribute to impaired food regulation. Outlines the evidence that supports the concept of food addiction, as well as the opposing view. Lists factors that contribute to overeating: genetics, epigenetics, hyperpalatable foods, gut dysbiosis, stress, maternal and early life factors, circadian disruptions, etc. Outlines potential approaches to control overeating: abstinence models, dietary modifications, cognitive therapies, neuromodulation, microbial manipulation and bariatric surgery. Describes how the information in this course can be utilized across the disciplines to improve patient care and outcomes. Describes, for this course, the implications for dentistry, mental health, nursing, pharmacy, occupational and physical therapy treatment goals, and other healthcare professions.

Describes components of the immune system and principles of normal immune function. Reviews the clinical features of common autoimmune, allergic and inflammatory conditions. Explains potential immune factors that may contribute to depression and other psychiatric disorders. Describes the link between poor oral health and immune dysfunction. Lists the dietary, pharmacologic, and lifestyle changes that may help balance immune function. Describes how the information in this course can be utilized to improve patient care and patient outcomes. Describes, for this course, the implications for dentistry, mental health, nursing, and other healthcare professions.