Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - BPK 110 OL01

Human Nutrition: Current Issues (3)

Class Number: 6288

Delivery Method: Online

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Online

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Oct 20, 2026
    Tue, 5:30–7:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction of the principles of human nutrition with an emphasis on topics of current interest. The material is presented in a Canadian context to focus on nutrition practices and problems in this country. Students will gain an understanding of factors affecting food selection and the role of nutrition in maintaining good health. Students will develop the ability to discriminate between reliable and unreliable information on the subject of food and nutrition. Breadth-Science.

COURSE DETAILS:

Students will learn about the nutrients contained in food that are required for normal human growth, development, repair and function: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, vitamins and water. The conversion of fuels (carbohydrates, fats, proteins) to usable energy, the role of nutrients in health and disease and the effects of nutrient deficiencies in Canada and the world will also be discussed. There will also be a strong emphasis on overnutrition, the leading nutritional concern in Canada. Further, students will develop their ability to evaluate nutrition sources for validity, accuracy and bias.  

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  1. Differentiate between different study design techniques used in nutrition, including their strength and limitations 
  2. Critically evaluate nutrition information sources for credibility 
  3. Record and analyze one’s diet, compare it to current nutritionalrecommendationsand suggest realistic areas for improvement  
  4. Outline Canadian nutrition policy, including the food guide and labelling requirements. 
  5. Describe the processof andthe structures involved in digestion and absorption. 
  6. Outline the stages of cellular respiration and differentiate between the energy metabolism of sugars, aminoacidsand fatty acids  
  7. Describe the structure and function of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins,mineralswater and alcohol 
  8. Describe how nutrition plays a role in various conditions including diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cancer, gastroesophageal reflux, diverticulosis, diarrhea, constipation.
  9. Outline conditions related to micronutrient deficiencies and excesses. 
  10. Describe the nutrition-related causes of energy imbalance and suggest realistic and sustainable approaches for achieving healthy energy balance at the individual level. 
  11. Predict fuel use for different time-points and intensities of physical activity. 
  12. Suggest dietary strategies for improving athletic performance and recovery 

 

Grading

  • Online Quizzes (5 in total; drop lowest) 5%
  • Online Activities (4 in total; drop lowest) 10%
  • Diet Analysis (DA 1 = 5% DA 2 = 10% DA 3 = 10%) 25%
  • Midterm Exam 25%
  • Final Exam 35%

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING:

Essential Nutrition Textbook. For purchase here: https://dianabedoya.thrivecart.com/essential-nutrition-textbook/ 

Department Undergraduate Notes:

It is the responsibility of the student to keep their BPK course outlines if they plan on furthering their education.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.