Checkpoint Assignment #1

NUTR 221 Spring 2023

Directions: Answer each prompt in your own words. Responses must be 150 words minimum. Please
write in complete sentences and avoid grammatical errors. There is no specific right or wrong answers
for these prompts. If you’ve followed the basic instructions, demonstrate an adequate understanding,
and thoughtfully answer each question you will receive full credit.

1. Please describe your process of how you would search for primary sources and peer reviewed
literature? What steps would you take to assess the reliability of the source?

2. What are some ways in which nutrition science is misrepresented in major media outlets? How
would you advise a friend or family member who brought up a questionable nutrition headline
to you?

3. Briefly describe the three major classes of macronutrients. Describe their basic structure.
Differentiate between structures within each class (example: carbohydrates can be mono, di, or
polysaccharides). Describe the major functional roles of each macronutrient class.

4. One of your friends is thinking about starting a collagen supplement and asks your opinion
because you have taken a basic human nutrition class. Based on what you know about protein,
protein digestion, and protein structure, what would be your recommendation for them?

5. A reoccurring word we have been hearing throughout this course is “balance”. Describe how the
concept of balance is critical in nutrition. What does the word “balance” mean to you in the
context of dietary patterns?