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752-6102-00L 3 Credits MSC , NDS , WBZ D-USYS , D-HEST

Nutrition throughout the life cycle

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Maria Andersson, Dr. Beatrice Anna Brugger
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:10

Abstract

A balanced diet is essential to maintain health throughout life. Increased nutrient density of diets is important to support growth, immunity and cognitive function. This course covers the role of diet and nutrition throughout the life cycle and discusses prevention of nutrition-related disorders and diseases.

Objective

The students will obtain a detailed understanding of: - The role of diet and nutrition across various life stages; - How dietary requirements and dietary patterns change throughout life; - How to ensure optimal nutrition in mothers and infants during pregnancy and lactation, children and adolescents during rapid growth, and in elderly; - Health consequences when the nutritional needs are not met; - Diseases and disorders associated with inadequate nutrition in vulnerable stages of life; - Challenges for optimal nutrition in low- and middle-income countries; - The role of obesity throughout the life cycle; - The latest science behind recommendations for nutrition intervention strategies at different life stages; - How nutrition policy and recommendations are developed, implemented and evaluated.

Content

The class comprises of weekly classroom lectures, independent reading, and active discussions of hot and relevant topics related to the course content. Course content includes the role of nutrition during pregnancy, infancy, young childhood, adolescence, menopause, and aging. The course will cover breastfeeding and infant feeding, the role of nutrition in growth, neurodevelopment, and immunity as well as chronic diseases such as eating disorders, osteoporosis, and dementia.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Presentations of the lecturers and relevant literature will be available on Moodle.

Literature

Obligatory course literature will be provided by the lecturer.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC , NDS , WBZ
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination
Mode
written 105 minutes
Aids
None
Digital
The exam takes place on devices provided by ETH Zurich.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Nutrition throughout the life cycle
  • Fri 08:15-10:00 (HG D 1.1)
2 h weekly

Offered In