Please see the following descriptions of the information that I have learned and the skills I have acquired through the Lamar University MS in Nutrition Program.
Sports Nutrition
In Sports Nutrition, I learned and mastered concepts as it relates to athletic performance, general health and wellness, and physical activity. I am able to find and evaluate the most recent research and critique specific sports nutrition recommendations while analyzing the efficacy of certain ergogenic aides. I can accurately predict energy and nutrient needs of those who are on the spectrum of athletic populations, from general fitness to the elite athlete and explain the different nutritional strategies to meet individual goals.
Integrative Nutrition
In Integrative Nutrition, I learned about complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), including the areas of functional foods, phytonutrients, herbals and botanicals, and dietary supplements. With the growing use of CAM in the general population and in the healthcare field, it is important to be able to assess and identify different CAM practices and be familiar with FDA regulations and differences between drug and dietary supplementation. I can now understand and recognize the potential hazards and benefits of CAM while being able to evaluate recent, quality research that support its effectiveness in treating and managing certain health conditions, such as obesity, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
Nutrition Education and Counseling
In Nutrition Education and Counseling, I was able to build on my counseling skills for both individuals and groups in a community setting. I expanded my knowledge of motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other nutrition counseling techniques to influence and induce positive behavior change. With several presentations and projects, I was able to strengthen my verbal and nonverbal communication skills as well as my written and oral presentation skills.
Nutrition in Pregnancy and Infancy
In Nutrition in Pregnancy and Infancy, I learned the importance of correctly and competently analyzing nutrient needs for mom and baby, identifying potential nutritional problems during pregnancy or after birth, and assessing nutritional status at the various stages of preconception, pregnancy, and early infancy. This course helped me become more proficient in this area of practice, allowing me to confidently counsel and treat individuals with specific nutritional concerns using the most recent evidence-based practice.
Nutrition in Aging
In Nutrition in Aging, I learned the importance of determining nutritional status using appropriate nutrition assessment tools, calculating nutritional needs, and assessing potential contraindications with medications. I was able to master concepts relating to the psychological, socioeconomical, and pathological changes that occur during the aging process as well as apply evidenced-based strategies and interventions to mitigate potential complications, such as malnutrition and dehydration.
Eating Disorders
In Eating Disorders, I learned about the specific diagnostic criteria for several eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, pica, rumination disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). I can explain the etiological factors that influence the development of an eating disorder, as well as factors that can increase risk for the development of eating disorder-like behaviors. I am able to correctly use screening tools and evidence-based therapies and strategies to treat and potentially prevent the development of an eating disorder.
Hannah Contrucci, MS, RDN, LD 