The brain, nervous system, diet and behaviour

On successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Review the mechanisms of information processing in the CNS including the role of neuroanatomy, neurotransmitters and brain metabolism
• Explain the key role of micronutrients (e.g. iron) and fatty acids in brain development and of long-chain PUFAs in dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD
• Describe the importance of diet-microbiome-brain interactions
• Evaluate when and how nutritional factors can contribute to the aetiology of neurodegenerative disease and how nutritional factors can reduce its progression
• Explore the potential of dietary manipulation and the use of appropriate nutritional treatment in the treatment and prevention of psychiatric illness
• Explain the treatment of epilepsy by the ketogenic diet
• Compare food addiction with other addictions
• Explain the role of diet, micronutrients and dietary flavonoids in influencing behaviour and cognitive function
• Understand the use of dietary methods in the management of autism
• Critically appraise the research on the role of nutrition in criminal behaviour.

• Overview of CNS neuroanatomy, neurotransmission and brain metabolism
• Nutrition and brain development
• Child neurodevelopment: emphasis on fatty acids, dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD
• Diet-microbiome-brain interactions
• Nutrition and prevention of dementia
• The role of essential fatty acids in major mental health disorders
• Epilepsy and the ketogenic diet
• The relation between diet, obesity and cognitive health
• Food addiction
• Impact of dietary flavonoids on brain function
• Nutrition and autism
• Diet, nutrition and criminal behaviour
• “Brain-food” dinner.

Learning and teaching methods include:

• Lectures
• Class discussions – these are vital to students’ understanding and sharing of their experience and perspectives.
• Case reports – students may be able to participate in these.
• Journal club with student interaction.
• Being exposed to foods important to the brain at the “Brain-food” dinner.
• Student presentations on the points discussed – this should help students relate to future interaction with employers.

Coursework:

• A range of subject areas will be assessed, demonstrating learning outcomes across the range for the module.
• The questions cover a variety of approaches to test skills and knowledge and the students’ ability to explain them (e.g. to employers).
• The questions allow students to develop areas including essay writing, data analysis, written communication skills, and practical application of knowledge.
• Students are required to submit electronically on a set deadline approximately two months (dependent on time of year) following the module.