Nutrition Across the Lifespan

This unit examines how body systems and life-stage changes influence nutritional needs, covering the endocrine and excretory systems and nutrition from preconception through the golden years. It builds on foundational nutrition science and prepares students to design life-stage–appropriate assessments and interventions in clinical settings.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the roles of the endocrine and excretory systems in nutrient metabolism, fluid and electrolyte balance, and how dysfunctions in these systems affect dietary recommendations
• Apply evidence-based nutrient and energy recommendations to develop individualized meal plans for pre- and postnatal clients, including guidance for breastfeeding and maternal recovery
• Demonstrate developmentally appropriate feeding strategies and nutritional assessments for infancy, childhood, adolescence, middle age, and older adulthood, including portioning, nutrient priorities, and growth/development monitoring
• Evaluate and modify dietary interventions across the lifespan by integrating chronic disease risk, medication-nutrient interactions, cultural preferences, and socioeconomic factors to support optimal health outcomes