NUT 499

Special Topics in Nutrition - Vegetarian & Gluten-Free Diets Online

Overview

This course examines the application of vegetarian and vegan dietary patterns in preventing and managing chronic disease. Students explore the evidence base for plant-based nutrition across major chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, chronic kidney disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and autoimmune disease, as well as nutrition considerations across the life cycle, from pregnancy and childhood through older adult populations. The course also covers gluten-related and autoimmune disorders, including the practical skills of gluten-free and dairy-free food preparation.

Through case-based discussions and a term-long Applied Case Study Project, students build practical, client-ready skills, including conducting nutrition analyses, developing evidence-informed nutrition and lifestyle plans using a professional case study report format, creating client education materials, and adapting recipes to meet specific dietary needs. The course emphasizes translating current nutrition science into individualized, real-world guidance for clients adopting a plant-based diet to manage a chronic health condition.

Learning Outcomes

  • Analyze the demographics, definitions, and health consequences of vegetarian and vegan dietary patterns.

  • Evaluate the nutrient profile of vegetarian/vegan diets with respect to protein, fat, calcium, minerals, and vitamins, and design strategies to meet requirements.

  • Apply evidence-based plant-based nutrition recommendations across the life cycle, including pregnancy, infancy, childhood, adolescence, and older adulthood.

  • Critically evaluate current research and apply evidence-based findings on the role of plant-based diets in the prevention and management of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, kidney disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and autoimmune conditions.

  • Design applied, evidence-based nutrition interventions (e.g., a full case study report, client education materials, sample menus) for individuals adopting a plant-based diet for chronic disease prevention or management.

  • Explain the pathophysiology of gluten-related and autoimmune disorders and apply appropriate gluten-free labeling regulations and nutrition therapy.

  • Develop and evaluate gluten-free and dairy-free food preparation techniques and recipes, including comparative nutrient analysis.

More details

Required Course Pack:

  • Online Materials and Library Resources (OMLR)
  • Plant-Based Nutrition in Clinical Practice 2022 Edited by Shireen Kassam, Zahra Kassam, Lisa Simon RD Chelsea Green Publishing 9781781611982

Required Textbooks: 

View the required textbooks for this class, including ISBN, edition, and retail price, by visiting our Required Textbooks page.

Total Course Price:

View the total course price including tuition, fees, course materials, and shipping online here.

Last updated 10/16/25

None – Prior or concurrent nutrition training is recommended

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