Supplementation and Nutrient Synergy introduces the concept of dietary supplementation and the ability of supplements to support specific patient needs. The recent history of nutrient deficiency diseases, food processing, food fortification, and the discovery and synthesis of vitamins is discussed. Emphasis is placed on the benefits of nutrient synergy found only in whole food and whole food extracts. 20th-century whole food nutrition pioneers are introduced. We also present a framework to support the clinician’s ability to critically evaluate supplement company philosophy, quality, safety, and research.
Upon completion of the course, clinicians will understand foundational concepts in human nutrition including the role of key macronutrients, micronutrients, and phytonutrients and how these nutrients synergize within the context of whole food. Clinicians will be equipped with the foundational tools they need to develop effective functional nutrition plans that include whole plant and animal foods and key dietary supplements where indicated.
At the end of this module the learner will be able to:
- Understand the role of nutrient supplementation in modern diets.
- Explore the history of nutrition science in the United States, including the discovery of vitamins, supplementation, and food fortification.
- Gain an understanding of a whole-food approach to supplementation and how it differs from the use of isolated extracts.
