Energetics in Human Evolution, Ecology, and Health

Examine the role of energy expenditure in human evolution and ecology, including: 1) growth, reproduction, and aging, 2) metabolically costly organs such as the brain, and 3) daily physical activity. Discuss methods for measuring energy expenditure. Investigate the effects of diet and exercise on daily energy expenditure in humans. Discuss the role of energy expenditure in modern cardiometabolic disease (e.g., obesity, heart disease, and diabetes). Students will complete and present an independent research project on a topic related to the course. Recommended prerequisite: Evolutionary Anthropology 330, Biology 329D/L, or Biology 321.