About the Course

This ITEC accredited distance learning course is designed to instruct sports and fitness professionals in using diet and nutrition to maximise physical performance, weight loss, muscle building, endurance sports and general health. We examine the problems with current overweight issues and ill-health in the context of the modern Western diet and examine common barriers to weight loss and fitness.

The course offers strategies for personal change but also develops skills for coaching others towardsa sustainable healthier future using food, nutrients, supplements and herbs to support optimum health. Students are given practical knowledge on diet and nutrition in order to advise clients in formulating healthy eating programmes for weight loss and to improve general fitness and well-being. This course is ideal for professionals who wish to add another dimension to physical fitness training advice.

The course format is modular allowing you to direct the progress of your learning. Structured home study allows you to complete each module in the comfort of your own home, at your own pace. Mututally agreed goals and milestones ensure that you will remain focused while still allowing you flexabilty.

As a student you will be assigned a personal tutor to guide and mentor you through the programme. Online tutorials are provided so that you receive the support that you need.

Course Content

This ITEC accredited certificate course consists of 5 modules in total. Four modules can be completed as home study and there is one taught module where you will be required to attend a weekend of lectures and training.

The course covers an array of vital nutritional knowledge including: the therapeutic qualities of food, toxicity and detoxification; bowel flora, dietary functions of minerals and vitamins and their deficiency and toxicity symptoms; the use of vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements as well as special nutrients. This course is a perfect adjunct to any therapy and will enhance your own health as well as your current or future practice.

Click here to view Course Module Options

• Module 1: Distance Learning
  Part 1: The Western Diet and Lifestyle & Health
  The modern Western diet and lifestyle
  The typical Irish diet and lifestyle
  Food processing/manufacturing methods
  Refined foods and their effects on health
  Medical conditions associated with modern diet & lifestyle
  Part 2: Understanding the Human Body and Health
  The human body and how it works
  The nutrition requirements of different systems of the body
  Digestion and absorption
  Bowel flora and health
  The effects of poor digestion on health
  Supporting digestion
  Key factors in disease progression in the West

Module 2: Distance Learning

Part 1: Micronutrients and Health:
The macro and micro minerals
Vitamins
Phytonutrients and antioxidants

Part 2: Macronutrients and Health:
Protein and the amino acids
Carbohydrates
Hypoglycaemia, diabetes and syndrome X
Glycaemic load and blood sugar regulation
Good’ and ‘bad’ fats
The role of fats in disease progression and prevention

Module 3: Distance Learning

Part 1: Food Groups and Health
Food groups and their place in a healthy diet
Common food allergies and intolerancesThe importance of water in health
Healthy alternatives to common foods
Food additives and preservatives
Antinutrients
Natural food toxins
Non food based toxins

Part 2: Meal Planning for Health
Planning dietary and lifestyle programmes
Inclusion of food groups
Nutrition guidelines
Including novel foods
Maximising the nutrient content
Growing your own vegetables, herbs, fruit
Healthy eating on a budget

Nutrition for different life stages

Module 4: Distance Learning
Part 1: Weight Loss and Detoxification
Overweight and obesity
Different nutrients and diets
Their effect on weight loss and health
Barriers to weight loss
Dietary Coaching approach to weight loss
Anorexia nervosa and bulimia
Other detoxification organs
Detoxification and cleansing
Acid and alkaline balance in the body
Supporting the liver
Part 2: Nutrition for Optimum Performance
Nutritional requirements of sports enthusiasts and athletes
Strength & endurance athletes
Nutrition for sports related conditions
Nutrition for increasing energy
Nutrition for vegan and vegetarian athletes

Module 5: Blended Learning

Part 1: Supplements and Herb

Distance Learning
The key bodies governing food and supplements in Ireland and the EU
The concepts and importance of GM, sustainability, seasonality
Basic supplements for dietary coaching
Herbs used for common health disorders
Herbs in cooking
Over the counter remedies
Safety when using herbs
Identifying drug/nutrient/herb interactions
Part 2: Dietary Coaching
Distance Learning
Using questionnaires for Dietary Coaching:
Producing diet plans and fact sheets
Case studies
Practical Application

Add-On Modules
Additional modules can be completed as add-ons
Managing Health with Nutrition
Western Herbs

Entry Requirements

IHS do not have any formal entry requirements for our distance learning courses. Anybody with a passion for fitness, food, nutrition and health is very welcome. However, all IHS distance learning courses require dedication and committment.

How to Apply

Training is an investment in your future. As with any investment it is important to identify what you want to gain and which course will provide it for you. The Institute staff will spend time speaking with you to ensure you have all the information you need to make the right decision. You may also like to attend one of our regular open evenings to find out more about the course structure, content and career opportunities.

To enrol you will need to complete the application form and return this along with a deposit to the address below.

Registrations
The Institute of Health Sciences
Kilnanare, Firies
Killarney, County Kerry
Ireland.