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Putting the Personal in Personalized Nutrition

Sharon M. Donovan

A “one size fits all” approach to nutrition may not work for everyone. We each have unique variations in our genome, epigenome and microbiome, which interact with our external environment to affect how our bodies respond to dietary intake. Learners will exam the basic principles of nutrition, explore the foundational aspects of personalized nutrition, and analyze the research about the roles of genetics and microbiomes in our personalized nutrition journey.

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A “one size fits all” approach to nutrition may not work for everyone. We each have unique variations in our genome, epigenome and microbiome, which interact with our external environment to affect how our bodies respond to dietary intake. Learners will exam the basic principles of nutrition, explore the foundational aspects of personalized nutrition, and analyze the research about the roles of genetics and microbiomes in our personalized nutrition journey.

This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit ACES Online @ aces.illinois.edu/online.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Orientation & Module 1 | Basic Principles of Nutrition
You will become familiar with the course, your classmates, and our learning environment. The orientation will also help you obtain the technical skills required for the course. In the second part of this module, you will explore the basics of nutrition and describe nutrient components. You will differentiate between macro and micronutrients and understand the concept of essential nutrients. Lastly, this module will explore dietary variety and recognize the importance of consuming a diverse range of foods to meet nutrient needs as well as navigating the dietary guidelines.
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Module 2 | Overview of Personalized Nutrition
At the conclusion of this module, you will understand the intricacies of tailoring dietary recommendations to individual needs. Throughout this module, we'll define personalized nutrition, contextualize it within the broader spectrum of dietary guidance, and delve into the factors influencing individuals' responses to food. Prepare to uncover the science behind personalized nutrition and its practical applications.
Module 3 | Is Personalized Nutrition All in My Genes?
At the conclusion of this module, you will uncover the fascinating intersection of genetics and personalized nutrition. We’ll unravel how single nucleotide polymorphisms influence our genetic makeup and impact our health. You will recognize the essential relationship between DNA, mRNA, and proteins—the molecular players that shape our nutritional responses.
Module 4 & Conclusion | How Might My Microbiome Affect Personalized Nutrition
At the conclusion of this module, you will be ready to complete the final assessment for the course and earn your Coursera certificate! You will delve into the intricate world of microbiota and microbiome—the tiny ecosystems within our bodies that play a pivotal role in our well-being. We’ll explore the fascinating link between personalized nutrition and the gut microbiota.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Individuals interested in making informed nutritional choices that align with their unique genetic and microbiomic profile will find this course valuable
Learners exploring the field of personalized nutrition will gain a comprehensive understanding of its principles and applications
Healthcare professionals seeking to incorporate personalized nutrition into their practice may find this course beneficial
Those with no prior background in nutrition may need to supplement their knowledge before taking this course

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Putting the Personal in Personalized Nutrition with these activities:
Connect with a Registered Dietitian
Expand your professional network and gain valuable insights by connecting with a nutrition expert.
Show steps
  • Attend industry events or webinars.
  • Reach out to registered dietitians through social media or professional networking platforms like LinkedIn.
Organize Your Course Materials
By organizing your course materials, you will have the resources you need for this course in one place and ready to use
Show steps
  • Gather all course materials including lecture notes, readings, and assignments
  • Create a system for organizing your materials either digitally or physically
  • Review your materials regularly and update your organization system as needed
Find a Nutrition Mentor
Having a mentor in the field of nutrition can provide invaluable guidance and support as you navigate your learning journey
Show steps
  • Identify potential mentors at your institution or in professional organizations
  • Contact potential mentors and introduce yourself
  • Establish regular communication and schedule meetings
Seven other activities
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Nutrient Identification Practice
Enhance your ability to recognize different types of nutrients and their functions in the body.
Browse courses on Macronutrients
Show steps
  • Review the handout on essential nutrients.
  • Complete a worksheet that includes a list of foods and their nutrient content.
Analyze My Plate Example
Reinforce macro and micronutrient levels in a My Plate-aligned meal by creating a sample menu.
Show steps
  • Choose two meals and one snack from your favorite cuisine.
  • Identify the food groups represented in each meal and snack.
  • Determine if the sample meal includes a variety of food groups and meets the recommended My Plate proportions.
  • Describe how the meal can be adjusted to better align with My Plate recommendations.
DNA Sequencing Basics
Gain foundational knowledge in DNA sequencing techniques and their applications in understanding genetic variation.
Browse courses on DNA Sequencing
Show steps
  • Watch an introductory video on DNA sequencing.
  • Read an article summarizing the basics of DNA sequencing.
  • Explore an interactive tutorial on DNA sequencing using a simulator.
Gene Expression Analysis Discussion
Deepen understanding of gene expression analysis and its role in personalized nutrition by engaging in group discussions.
Browse courses on Gene Expression
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  • Prepare talking points based on the assigned reading.
  • Participate in a discussion session with peers
  • Summarize key insights and takeaways from the discussion.
Volunteer at a Local Nutrition Organization
Volunteering can help you make a positive impact in your community while gaining practical experience in nutrition
Show steps
  • Identify local nutrition organizations that offer volunteer opportunities
  • Contact the organizations and inquire about volunteer positions
  • Participate in volunteer activities and share your nutrition knowledge
Personalized Nutrition in Practice
Gain practical knowledge of how personalized nutrition is being applied in clinical settings by attending an industry workshop.
Show steps
  • Identify upcoming workshops related to personalized nutrition.
  • Register and attend the workshop.
  • Network with professionals in the field.
  • Apply learnings to your own understanding of personalized nutrition.
Start a Nutrition Blog
Starting a blog will give you an outlet to share your nutrition knowledge, connect with a wider audience, and put your understanding of nutrition into practice
Show steps
  • Choose a blogging platform and set up your blog
  • Develop a content calendar and start writing blog posts
  • Promote your blog and engage with your audience

Career center

Learners who complete Putting the Personal in Personalized Nutrition will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

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