SHL6422 - Elite Physiology/Sports Nutrition

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

1 demonstrate an understanding of the immunomodulatory effects of severe exercise stress;
2 Design an appropriate test procedure for a given athlete in both a laboratory and a field situation;
3 utilise and apply previously acquired physiological knowledge to aid the understanding of the effects of hydration and dehydration in the elite performer
4 demonstrate an understanding of the physiological effects of severe heat stress on the elite performer’;
5 demonstrate an understanding of the digestion, absorption and fate of nutrients in the human body;
6 analyse the role of macro and micronutrients in optimising health and physical performance;
7 evaluate the role of a range of ergogenic aids and dietary supplements designed for the sports market;
8 demonstrate an understanding of the principles of dietary planning and guidance for participants in physical activity in a specified setting.

Content:

Physiological adaptations to training, heat stress, dehydration and hydration strategies, infections of the respiratory tract, immune function, immunosuppression, neutrophil function, phagocytosis.

Digestion, absorption and fate of nutrients in the human body. The nature of body composition and the principles of energy balance. Dietary reference values and nutrient requirements of different sectors of the population, including sportsmen and women. The role of macronutrients and micronutrients in optimising health and physical performance. Ergogenic aids and dietary supplements designed for the sports market. Introduction to dietary counselling. Planning diet regimens for individuals and groups of active sports men and women.

Learning and Teaching Information:

Lectures
Contact Hours 48
Number of Groups1

Workshop
Contact Hours 6
Number of Groups 2

Assessment: