The purpose of this book is not only to introduce you to the concept of nutrition as a science, but to give you the knowledge (& the skills) to defend yourself against those that would take advantage of a lack of nutrition knowledge.
Type of Material:
Open (Access) Textbook
Recommended Uses:
In-Class Activities:
Lecture Supplements: Key concepts (e.g., macronutrient functions) paired with case studies (e.g., analyzing a celebrity diet).
Group Debates: Teams defend/critique nutrition claims using evidence from the material.
Hands-On Labs: Food label analysis and macronutrient estimation exercises.
Self-Paced Learning:
Modular chapters with quizzes (for example, "Test Your Knowledge: Spot the Food Myth").
Interactive scenarios (for example, "Design a meal plan for a diabetic patient").
Team-Based Learning:
Peer Teaching: Small groups teach the class a topic (for example, "The Truth About Detox Diets").
Collaborative Projects: Create a public-service infographic on nutrition myths.
Technical Requirements:
Internet access
Web browser
Identify Major Learning Goals:
Major Learning Goals
After actively engaging with this material, the learner will be able to:
Define core principles of nutrition science (e.g., macronutrients, micronutrients, energy metabolism) and their relevance to human health.
Evaluate the validity of nutrition-related claims (e.g., fad diets, supplements, "superfoods") using evidence-based criteria.
Apply foundational nutrition knowledge to make informed dietary choices that support personal health goals.
Analyze how socioeconomic, cultural, and marketing factors influence food choices and nutritional disparities.
Defend against misinformation by articulating science-based nutrition concepts in everyday contexts (e.g., interpreting food labels, debunking myths).
Target Student Population:
High School, College General Ed, College Lower Division, College Upper Division
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
Introductory Biology (helpful but not mandatory):
Understanding cells, metabolism, and human body systems (e.g., digestive system).
High School-Level Chemistry (optional for deeper modules):
Familiarity with atoms, molecules, and chemical bonds (e.g., understanding carbohydrates as chains of sugars).
Basic Computer Skills
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
The content is valid/accurate/reliable.
The book depicts reality.
Actionable learning: Focus on real-world skills (e.g., interpreting labels).
The book balances depth and accessibility.
Important/valuable concepts are discussed.
The book teaches content with a quiz at the end of each section.
The content helps to explain complex concepts.
The validity and significance are consistent.
Concerns:
The book could be improved by including more diverse examples, such as more global/cultural dietary practices (for example, Mediterranean vs. Asian diets).
Some of the references are outdated and could be updated for improvement.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
The book has a clear focus on combating misinformation—skills transfer beyond the classroom.
The book is both a description and an exploration of concepts.
The sources facilitate learning, and a reference list is at the end of each section.
The concepts are presented with clarity and organization by various authors.
The material is innovative and flexible for delivery in traditional, hybrid, or flipped classrooms.
The book is engaging and intriguing with numerous flow diagrams, images, and charts.
The book contributes to various learning styles and offers closed captioning.
The book provides examples.
The book does provide a good introduction to each chapter.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The resources are well organized with a consistent navigational structure.
Hierarchical headings (H1-H4) for screen readers and skimming are present for accessibility.
Text is selectable and highlightable.
Most images included alt text.
Concerns:
The index was either blank or did not open correctly as after clicking on index it was blank.
It is recommended to check that all tables are free of merged cells that disrupt screen reader flow.
The infographics on nutrient absorption lacked alt text.
The cooking demo video did not include closed captions or transcripts.
Creative Commons:
Search by ISBN?
It looks like you have entered an ISBN number. Would you like to search using what you have
entered as an ISBN number?
Searching for Members?
You entered an email address. Would you like to search for members? Click Yes to continue. If no, materials will be displayed first. You can refine your search with the options on the left of the results page.
Searching for Members?
You entered an email address. Would you like to search for members? Click Yes to continue. If no, materials will be displayed first. You can refine your search with the options on the left of the results page.
