Healthcare professionals would be thrilled if individuals made decisions about what to eat based on a solid knowledge of what constitutes a “healthy diet.” Unfortunately, that is not typically the case. Many people do not know what constitutes a healthy diet. There are also those who do know but make less healthy choices for several reasons.
The food choices that people make are influenced by a variety of factors. Factor-categories include, but are not limited to, environmental cues, socioeconomic realities, cultural/religious beliefs, and the availability of foods in the community.
In a 3-page paper, written in APA format using proper spelling/grammar, address the following:
Explain what nutrition is and why it is important.
Describe the characteristics of a healthy diet and provide supporting examples.
Identify at least two (2) factors (other than culture) that can impact a person’s food choices and provide a specific example for each.
Research a culture (e.g., ethnic, religious, dietary) where specific food restrictions are dictated and address the following:
a. Describe the restrictions.
b. Explain how the restrictions could make it difficult for an individual to achieve a healthy diet.
c. What dietary alternatives could be incorporated to overcome the dietary restrictions?
Cite at least 3 credible references and present the resources in APA format on the References page.
For information about researching a topic and assessing the credibility of resources, consult the resources below.
Rubric Details
Mastery: Advanced or exceeds achievement
Met length requirement. Minimal to no spelling and grammar errors. APA in-text citations and references are used correctly. Resources have outstanding credibility.
Explain Nutrition and its Importance
Mastery: Advanced or exceeds achievement
Thorough explanation of nutrition and the importance of healthy diet.
Characteristics of Healthy Diet
Mastery: Advanced or exceeds achievement
Thorough description of healthy diet characteristics. Outstanding supporting examples provided.
Factors Impacting Food Choices
Mastery: Advanced or exceeds achievement
2 factors (at least) identified with outstanding example for each.
Culture-related Nutritional Challenges
Mastery: Advanced or exceeds achievement
In-depth explanation of the chosen culture, the restrictions, the effects from the restrictions and any alternatives for overcoming restrictions. Exemplary explanations and detail.
