Advanced Diploma of Nutritional Medicine

Year 2

These modules provide a biomedical understanding of how the human body works. Students are introduced to anatomical and medical terminology, given a basic understanding of cells and tissues and are presented with an overview of the integrated organ systems that make up the human body. Each system is studied from the perspectives of structure (anatomy) and function (physiology). This foundation is essential for the study of pathology and symptomatology in later modules.

This module explores the origin and history of tissue salts, from the original Schuessler Tissue Salts through to the modern Blackmore’s colloidal mineral range. Students will examine the biochemistry of essential minerals, where and how they are used in the body and how to prescribe and dispense them. The module will explore how colloidal mineral therapy can be used on its own or in combination with other therapies.

Naturopathic Analysis

This module focuses on iris analysis as the primary health assessment tool for naturopaths. Students study the history and development of iris analysis, its strengths and limitations, and its incorporation in naturopathic practice under a naturopathic philosophical framework. Various iris and eye signs are presented and discussed with reference to their indications relating to health. The module investigates different schools of thought in iridology theory and practice. Students apply iris analysis to determine potential health issues from a naturopathic perspective.

Naturopathic Clinical Studies 1 is designed to assist students in their transition from the classroom to the clinic. This is a pre-clinical studies type module which promotes the integration of essential knowledge and skills gained so far and the application of them to clinical practice. Students will also gain additional knowledge in areas of naturopathic health assessment and therapy, as well as developing their skills in the application of naturopathic principles to health assessment, therapeutic strategy development, and client management.

This module investigates the cultural influences on diet and nutrition and provides an introduction to the concept of the therapeutic properties of food. Students will also gain an understanding of the nutrition requirements of the different stages of life, from pregnancy to old age. The module also introduces the roles of food additives and preservatives and investigates the topics of food intolerance and food allergy, as well as xenobiotics and liver function.

Nutritional Medicine 4 looks at the influences of substances such as caffeine, nicotine and alcohol on nutritional status and health, and explores the potential of drug-nutrient and nutrient-nutrient interactions. This module also commences the study of nutrition therapeutics, with emphasis on digestive and gastrointestinal health and how this may influence nutritional status, as well as how optimum nutrition may enhance gastrointestinal health.

Starting with the fundamentals of disease processes, these modules explore the common pathologies for each organ system, emphasising clinical course and underlying causes of disease. The material is presented from a biomedical perspective to give students an understanding of “conventional” diagnosis and treatment.

This module covers safe workplace procedures, risk control and standard precautions for infection control and promotion of hygiene. Students will apply these in the clinical setting when they commence their Naturopathic Clinical Studies modules