Specific food-related motivators influence nutrition behaviors and ultimately, impact health outcomes. This course focuses on understanding nutrition-related behaviors and how to influence positive behaviour changes which promote good health. Readings, class discussions, projects and writing assignments guide students to develop an analytical approach to the assessment of nutrition behaviors. Students explore through case studies nutrition behaviors and their implications on health examining the impact of biblical perspectives within various cultures.
Many factors influence nutrition behaviors, including the availability of food. Students investigate the past and present socio-political, cultural, economic influences upon nutrition behaviors, as well as individual factors. Students are introduced to basic nutritional assessment tools, inclusive of motivational interviewing and other culturally relevant strategies to promote positive changes. Implications of food ministries are woven throughout, including biblical perspectives on nutrition and a Christian’s responsibility as a role model.
Food is both necessary, and yet can be addictive. Lack of food resources, as well as an overabundance can drive behavior in ways that negatively impact health. This course is designed to help prepare the lay person interested in establishing a food-related ministry by understanding nutrition-related motivations and behaviors, as well as issues and trends.
This course approaches the concepts of nutrition and behavior from a biblical perspective. Students explore biblical perspectives on hunger and nutrition, and a Christian’s role in addressing these topics through food ministries and other culturally and socially relevant strategies.
Health and nutrition concepts are applied with a mission focus to holistically engage communities. Students identify nutrition-related motivations and behaviors as opportunities for food ministry intervention.
Course content is contextually informed, specifically related to health and nutrition. The class includes current social, political, and economic considerations impacting food behaviors in communities, and society as a whole.
Case studies help students explore nutrition behaviors in various cultures. Specific examination of nutrition beliefs and practices in various cultures that drive the behaviors are assessed and analysed.
This course provides practical considerations and strategies for addressing health and nutrition within communities as a concerned layperson, as well as globally through the church body.
Students reflect on personal nutrition behaviors, and compare and contrast them with others. Summative integration of the course through critical assessment of effective food ministries in various cultures offers an opportunity for practical analysis.
