MU Nutritional Sciences

Study Abroad in Italy:
The Mediterranean Diet and Lifestyle

2008 Summer Semester
Tentative Dates: May 21-June 7

MU Summer Study Abroad in Italy

What does the program offer?
This is a three-week course, with one week spent in Columbia and two weeks spent throughout Italy. Led by MU Nutritional Sciences instructors Dale Brigham and Ann Cohen, the program will focus on the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet and physically active lifestyle.

The Mediterranean diet is rich in whole grains, fruits, nuts, legumes, fish and olive oil, and the Mediterranean lifestyle is infused with a culture of walking, bicycling and other physical activities. These two components of health have been linked to longer life, decreased risk of heart disease and a lower prevalence of cancer and other chronic diseases in the Mediterranean population.

Through your participation in the program you will study the components of the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle, and compare food, nutrition and physical activity patterns and influences in Italy with those of the U.S. The course will help you gain a greater understanding of how cultural food choices and physical activity opportunities impact health.

What makes the diet and lifestyle of Italy special?
It’s likely that the good health of the people in the Mediterranean region is due to both their healthy diet and active lifestyle. Italians typically approach mealtime much differently than Americans. Meals are taken at a leisurely pace, and are seen as an opportunity to relax and socialize. Since eating is not rushed, Italians have more of an opportunity to acknowledge that they are full, and not overeat.

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans and olive oil are consumed daily, while dairy products, fish and poultry are eaten occasionally and red meat infrequently. The cuisine is very dependent on the season, as emphasis is placed on the use of fresh, seasonal produce. In addition, portion sizes are typically smaller than what you would find in the U.S.

To maintain a healthy balance between eating and activity, many Italian families take a walk through town before and after dinner. Walking and riding bikes is very common, especially in the cities. The environment of Italy itself seems to be conducive to an active lifestyle, which, when combined with a wholesome diet, contributes to overall good health.

What will I study?
You will experience food and activity-related excursions, such as visits to fresh food markets, producers of olive oil, balsamic vinegar and cheese, vegetable farms and cooking classes. Additionally, you will take a day hike through the celebrated Cinque Terre, a string of five coastal villages connected by walking paths. You will have the opportunity to travel throughout the country, visiting a variety of Italian cities and towns.

Where will I live?
You will be housed with other students in hotels in the cities we visit, including Sorrento and Florence.

Will I get academic credit?
You will register for three (3) MU credits of NS 3001 (Grad: NS 7001) Topics in Nutritional Sciences. Because this is an MU course, the grade you receive will be calculated into your MU GPA.

Can I get financial aid?
The financial aid that you normally receive for regular classes at MU should apply to the cost of the program. Additional grants, loans or scholarships may be available to offset the extra costs incurred on this program. Please see the advisor for study abroad financing at the MU Financial Aid Office for more complete information.

Am I eligible?
Yes! There are no prerequisites or class-standing requirements to enroll in the course.

How much will it cost?

Estimated Program Costs:
MU Educational Fees for 3 Credits1: $708
MU Information Technology Fees for 3 Credits1: $35
MU Human Environmental Sciences Course Fees for 3 Credits1: $108
MU Study Abroad Administrative Fee1: $75
Program Fee2: $2334
Total Program Costs: $3260

Additional Expenses:
Round Trip Airfare (estimated): $1500
Personal Expenses (estimated): $300
Total Additional Cost: $1800

Final Cost: $5060

1. Based on fees for the 2006-2007 academic year.

2. The Program Fee is an estimate based on 15 students participating in the program, and may increase if the final number goes below 15.

How do I apply for the program?
You should submit the following application materials to Carole Braun (contact information below) by February 15, 2008:

1. A completed application form.

2. A $100 deposit made out to University of Missouri to hold your place in the program. The deposit will be applied towards your payment for the program fee.

Submit application materials to:
Carole Braun, Administrative Assistant
Nutritional Sciences Extension
308 Gwynn Hall
Columbia, MO 65211
573-882-0698

Where can I find out more?
Contact:
Dale Brigham, PhD
MU Nutritional Sciences Extension
315B Gwynn Hall
Columbia, MO 65211
(573) 884-0266
brighamd@missouri.edu 

or

Ann Cohen, MS, RD, LD
MU Nutritional Sciences Extension
1205 University Place
Columbia, MO 65211
(573) 882-2435
cohena@missouri.edu