Course at a glance
Introduction
Living a healthy lifestyle has become increasingly popular, and this course explores why a balanced diet combined with regular exercise is essential for good health.
The Level 3 Diet and Nutrition Diploma defines diet and nutrition and explains what our bodies need and how they process food, build muscle, and maintain energy levels. It covers the essentials for staying healthy, including the required foods and quantities.
Through practical activities, students will learn the foundations of diet and nutrition, with tasks that can easily be completed at home.
The course is divided into 10 units of study, you can read a detailed summary of each unit in the ‘Content’ section at the bottom of the page.
To help spread the cost of the course, you can opt to spread the course fees over an interest and credit check free instalment plan. To do this, select the option for instalment payment from the drop-down box above the ‘Enrol’ button.
Diet and Nutrition Short Course Diploma Entry Requirements
All students must be 16 years of age and above to enter into our Diet and Nutrition Short Course Diploma (Level 3).
Short Course Diploma courses require a minimum prior learning to level 2 standard or equivalent in order that students can manage their studies and the assumed knowledge within course content.
Study Hours
200 hours in total. Or 20 hours per week over 10 weeks.
Assessment
Written assessment at the end of each unit of study.
Enrolment
Enrolment is open year-round.
Level 3 Diet and Nutrition Diploma Course Content
Module 1: The Digestive System
This introductory module explains how the digestive system processes food and water, covering both digestible and indigestible substances. Students will learn how food travels through the digestive system, from the mouth to the intestines, and the nutritional benefits that different foods provide.
Module 2: Dietary Nutrients
This module examines the essential nutrients—carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water—and their functions in the body. Students will explore concepts like “Energy Balance” and “Body Mass Index” and discuss how to introduce balanced nutrition into daily life.
Module 3: Supplementary Nutrients
In addition to standard nutrients, the role of vitamins, minerals, and supplements is covered here. This module discusses the benefits and limitations of supplements, especially for groups with specific health needs, such as children, the elderly, and those recovering from illness.
Module 4: The Role of Fluids
Water is crucial to life, and this module explains the importance of fluids for hydration, temperature regulation, waste elimination, and joint health. It covers the role of electrolytes and the effects of dehydration. The module also looks at alcohol’s effects on the body, including metabolism and health impacts.
Module 5: Weight Loss and Dieting
This module explores the health benefits of weight management and the risks of rapid weight loss methods. Topics include appetite control, metabolism, and strategies for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Simple methods for healthy weight gain are also discussed.
Module 6: Vegetarianism
This module covers the reasons people choose vegetarianism, including ethical and health considerations. It discusses the health benefits and challenges of a vegetarian diet, different variations of vegetarianism, and ideas for balanced vegetarian meals.
Module 7: Young People
The nutritional needs of children and young people vary based on age, activity level, and gender. This module explores these specific requirements and discusses nutrition for pregnant women and women planning to conceive, focusing on health from early stages of life.
Module 8: Groups with Special Dietary Needs
This module examines the unique dietary needs of specific groups, including those with diabetes, heart disease, allergies, and asthma. It explores symptoms and preventive measures, emphasising essential minerals and vitamins like iron to avoid deficiencies such as anaemia.
Module 9: Eating Disorders
This module addresses eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive eating, discussing these conditions as expressions of psychological conflict. Students will learn strategies for supporting individuals struggling with disordered eating and improving body image.
Module 10: Personal Dietary Plans
The final module teaches students how to create personalised dietary plans tailored to an individual’s age, gender, activity level, and health goals. This includes meal suggestions, keeping food and exercise diaries, and tracking progress towards health targets.
Additional Recommended Text:
- Nutrition, Health and Sport by Tutor Argon
Progression
This Diet and Nutrition Short Course Diploma can be used to gain entry to a Level 4+5 Diploma or higher.
You can view a list of our Level 4+5 Diplomas here: Accredited Level 4+5 Diplomas
