Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) - USA
1 **Foundational Knowledge in Nutrition**
1-1 Basic Biochemistry and Metabolism
1-2 Human Anatomy and Physiology
1-3 Nutrient Digestion, Absorption, and Transport
1-4 Nutrient Metabolism and Energy Production
1-5 Nutrient-Gene Interactions
2 **Macronutrients**
2-1 Carbohydrates
2-1 1 Classification and Functions
2-1 2 Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load
2-1 3 Carbohydrate Metabolism
2-2 Proteins
2-2 1 Essential Amino Acids
2-2 2 Protein Digestion and Absorption
2-2 3 Protein Metabolism
2-2 4 Protein-Energy Malnutrition
2-3 Fats
2-3 1 Essential Fatty Acids
2-3 2 Fat Digestion and Absorption
2-3 3 Fat Metabolism
2-3 4 Dietary Fats and Health
3 **Micronutrients**
3-1 Vitamins
3-1 1 Fat-Soluble Vitamins (A, D, E, K)
3-1 2 Water-Soluble Vitamins (B-Complex, C)
3-2 Minerals
3-2 1 Major Minerals (Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium, Chloride)
3-2 2 Trace Minerals (Iron, Zinc, Copper, Selenium, Iodine, Fluoride)
3-3 Phytonutrients
3-3 1 Antioxidants
3-3 2 Polyphenols
3-3 3 Carotenoids
4 **Nutrition Through the Lifecycle**
4-1 Prenatal and Infant Nutrition
4-1 1 Maternal Nutrition and Fetal Development
4-1 2 Breastfeeding and Infant Formulas
4-2 Childhood and Adolescent Nutrition
4-2 1 Growth and Development
4-2 2 Nutritional Needs and Dietary Recommendations
4-3 Adult Nutrition
4-3 1 Nutritional Needs and Dietary Recommendations
4-3 2 Weight Management
4-4 Geriatric Nutrition
4-4 1 Nutritional Needs and Dietary Recommendations
4-4 2 Age-Related Changes in Nutrient Utilization
5 **Clinical Nutrition**
5-1 Nutritional Assessment
5-1 1 Anthropometric Measurements
5-1 2 Biochemical Assessments
5-1 3 Clinical Assessments
5-1 4 Dietary Assessments
5-2 Nutritional Support
5-2 1 Enteral Nutrition
5-2 2 Parenteral Nutrition
5-3 Nutritional Management of Diseases
5-3 1 Cardiovascular Diseases
5-3 2 Diabetes Mellitus
5-3 3 Obesity
5-3 4 Renal Diseases
5-3 5 Gastrointestinal Diseases
5-3 6 Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders
6 **Public Health Nutrition**
6-1 Epidemiology of Nutrition-Related Diseases
6-2 Nutrition Policy and Programs
6-3 Community Nutrition
6-4 Food Security and Nutrition
6-5 Nutrition Education and Counseling
7 **Food Science and Technology**
7-1 Food Composition and Nutrient Content
7-2 Food Processing and Preservation
7-3 Food Safety and Hygiene
7-4 Food Labeling and Regulations
8 **Research Methods in Nutrition**
8-1 Research Design and Methodology
8-2 Data Collection and Analysis
8-3 Interpretation of Scientific Literature
8-4 Ethical Considerations in Research
9 **Professional Practice and Ethics**
9-1 Scope of Practice for Nutrition Specialists
9-2 Ethical Guidelines and Standards
9-3 Communication Skills
9-4 Professional Development and Continuing Education
4-4 Geriatric Nutrition Explained

4-4 Geriatric Nutrition Explained

Key Concepts

Nutritional Needs in Aging

As individuals age, their nutritional needs change due to physiological changes such as decreased muscle mass, altered metabolism, and reduced organ function. Key nutrients include protein for muscle maintenance, calcium and vitamin D for bone health, and antioxidants to combat oxidative stress.

Imagine nutritional needs in aging as the maintenance required for an old car. Just as an old car needs specific care to keep running smoothly, the aging body requires targeted nutrients to function optimally.

Common Nutritional Challenges

Common challenges in geriatric nutrition include decreased appetite, difficulty chewing or swallowing, and medication interactions that affect nutrient absorption. These challenges can lead to malnutrition, which increases the risk of falls, infections, and cognitive decline.

Think of these challenges as obstacles in the road. Just as obstacles can slow down a journey, nutritional challenges can hinder the health and well-being of older adults.

Dietary Recommendations

Dietary recommendations for older adults focus on nutrient-dense foods that are easy to chew and swallow. These include soft fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and fortified dairy products. Hydration is also crucial, as older adults are at higher risk for dehydration.

Imagine dietary recommendations as a carefully planned route. Just as a well-planned route ensures a smooth journey, tailored dietary recommendations ensure optimal nutrition for older adults.

Impact of Nutrition on Health Outcomes

Proper nutrition in older adults can significantly impact health outcomes, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. It also supports cognitive function and overall quality of life.

Think of nutrition as the fuel for a long journey. Just as good fuel ensures a car runs efficiently, proper nutrition ensures the aging body functions well and maintains health.