MICROBIO 494CI Obesity, Supplements, and the Microbiome

Nearly 70% of Americans are obese or overweight. The distribution of the epidemic correlates strongly with poverty and access to high quality food.  Students in this class will engage in directed literature research and discussion. Topics will start by examining risks factors for obesity including genetic, macro genetic/microbiome, societal (commercial, race, poverty).  The goal of this course is to examine the obesity pandemic using a multidisciplinary approach with the aim of identifying any evidence for effective approaches to changing obesity rates.  Satisfies one of three required modules for the Integrative Experience requirement for BA-MicBio or BS-MicBio majors.