HNFM Winter 2017

This course examines the metabolic pathways that are involved in the conversion of exogenous and endogenous toxins and waste compounds and molecules into excretable substances. Phase I and II reactions, regulation of detoxification pathways, genetic variations, and functional assessment of these mechanisms are detailed. Nutritional support and the effect of drugs on detoxification pathways are reviewed, as well as the disturbed physiology and eventual pathology that results from imbalances in detoxification and biotransformation.

This course examines the actions, interrelationships, control mechanisms and imbalances of neurotransmitters, neuroendocrine factors, hormones and immune mediators. Particular emphasis is placed on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, thyroid metabolism, and sex hormones. The effects of toxins, free radicals, stress, diet, nutrient deficiencies, digestive disorders, drugs and specific foods on neurotransmitters and hormones are analyzed. Laboratory testing of the various substances, including precursors and metabolites is included.

The prevalence of autoimmune diseases is increasing rapidly worldwide and, as with other health ailments such as hypertension and diabetes, these conditions are becoming particularly more common in westernized societies. Rapid changes in disease prevalence point to a change in the patient’s “environment” rather than to genetic causes, to which these conditions have traditionally been described in so-called conventional medicine. Likewise, these conditions that were once considered “idiopathic” have now been described and researched to such an extent that we are able to decipher the illusions and phenomenalistic perspectives that previously guided therapeutic intervention. This course will review the major autoimmune diseases, their unique and common ideologies, laboratory assessments, physical exam findings, and nutritional and integrative interventions, including pharmacologic drugs. Course materials will be delivered via PDF documents and peer-reviewed articles, printed materials, prerecorded video lectures, and live sessions.

This course is an introduction to the principles of epidemiology and their application to nutrition. This course addresses the role of nutrition in investigating the epidemiology of many chronic diseases. The course also stresses clinical research design methods utilized in nutrition research as well as general clinical research designs such as clinical trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, and other pragmatic designs.

Obesity, diabetes mellitus type II, and hypertension are epidemic problems in Americanized societies and increasingly worldwide. Approximately 1/3 to 1/2 of Americans are obese and/or diabetic and/or hypertensive. Whereas diabetes and hypertension had previously been found almost exclusively among older adults, we find these conditions occurring more commonly among children; this trend indicates a clear change in “the total environment” and directs us away from so-called genetic causes of these conditions. This course specifies the diagnostic criteria, history, physical exam, laboratory assessment, and treatment plans for the related conditions of obesity, diabetes mellitus type two, metabolic syndrome, chronic hypertension and high blood pressure. Course materials will be delivered via PDF documents and peer-reviewed articles, printed materials, prerecorded video lectures, and live sessions.