Nutritional Biochemistry

Nutrition and Dietetics · Level 6  ·  3 Chapters

Compiled by: Faith Chepkoech

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What Nutritional Biochemistry covers

In this unit, you will be able to confidently identify and understand the essential molecules that make up our bodies, from micro and macro molecules to DNA, RNA, and enzymes. You will gain practical skills in describing how these molecules function, replicate, and interact to support life, including how nutrients are metabolised and how hormones influence our bodies. By the end, you’ll be ready to apply this knowledge in real-world settings, helping to improve health and nutrition through a solid foundation in biochemistry.

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Careers after Nutritional Biochemistry

Understanding Nutritional Biochemistry opens doors to numerous career paths and practical applications in Kenya’s diverse economy. Whether you dream of working in healthcare, agriculture, or the food industry, mastering these skills equips you to contribute meaningfully to improving health and nutrition outcomes across the country.

  • In the health sector, hospitals and clinics across Kenya—from Nairobi’s Kenyatta National Hospital to county health centers—require professionals who can analyze biomolecules to support patient diagnosis and treatment plans.
  • The agribusiness sector, including companies like KTDA (Kenya Tea Development Agency), depends on experts who understand biochemical processes to improve crop nutrition and pest resistance, enhancing yields and quality.
  • In the vibrant jua kali industry, small-scale food processors and manufacturers need knowledge of enzymes and hormones to optimize fermentation and food preservation techniques, creating safer and more nutritious products.
  • The hospitality and food service industries rely on nutritional biochemistry to develop healthier menus and comply with food safety standards, boosting customer satisfaction and business growth.
  • Opportunities in research institutions such as the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) allow you to innovate in genetic research, improving livestock breeds or developing biofortified crops.
  • Self-employment prospects abound for those who master these skills—starting nutrition consultancy services, health supplements businesses, or quality control labs that serve local markets and export industries.

By mastering Nutritional Biochemistry, you position yourself at the heart of Kenya’s efforts to improve health, food security, and economic development. Your expertise will not only open doors to rewarding jobs but also empower you to innovate and lead in a rapidly growing field. Keep learning—your future in Kenya’s dynamic workforce is bright!

Chapters

What Nutritional Biochemistry covers: 13 main topics in 3 chapters

1. Apply knowledge of macro and micro molecules

  1. 1.1 Types of macro molecules
  2. 1.2 Types of micro molecules
  3. 1.3 Structure and functions of Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and Ribonucleic Acid (RNA)
  4. 1.4 Process of DNA replication
  5. 1.5 Process of DNA transcription

2. Apply knowledge of enzymes and hormones

  1. 2.1 Enzymes
  2. 2.2 Structure and properties of enzymes
  3. 2.3 Co-enzymes and co-factors
  4. 2.4 Enzymes mechanisms
  5. 2.5 Hormones

3. Apply knowledge of nutrient metabolism

  1. 3.1 Carbohydrate metabolism
  2. 3.2 Protein metabolism
  3. 3.3 Lipid metabolism

Revise this unit

3 more for this unit

Beyond the syllabus

Other units in Module V