Discussion 1 – Chronic Diseases Associated with Excess Sugar/Carbohydrate Intake

Jan 6 – Feb 17

Must post first.

All graded discussion topics will be here.

Introduction

This assignment bridges chemistry concepts with nursing practice. Youll explore how excess sugar or carbohydrate intake contributes to chronic diseases, and explain the biochemical mechanisms, prevention strategies, and treatment options in a concise, engaging format.

Format: Individual Video Note

This discussion involves the use of

Length: Minimum 3 minutes, Maximum 5 minutes

Initial Submission: Start a New Thread as described in the video, record your video note, and upload/drag your list of references to the attachments box (it will be below your video note).

Response to classmates: After the initial submission, you will respond to a minimum of two (2) of your classmates (either by typing or with a video note). The due date for the responses will be 2 days after the due date for the initial submission.

Due Dates: The initial post should be submitted 2 days before the due date for the discussion. The response to at least two (2) classmates is due by the due date for the discussion.

Get Ready!

Choose a Disease

Select one chronic disease linked to excess sugar/carbohydrate intake. Examples include:

• Cardiovascular Disease
• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
• Obesity
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Dental Caries

Research & Prepare

Your video should include:

• Brief overview of the disease
• Biochemical explanation: Role of specific molecules (e.g. glucose, insulin, triglycerides) and how they contribute to the disease (e.g., insulin resistance, lipid accumulation, inflammation)
• Impact on organs and systems
• Prevention strategies: Lifestyle, dietary, and public health approaches
• Treatment options: Medications, dietary interventions, nursing care consideration

Share Your Thoughts (Part 1)

Create Your Video Note

• Use clear, accurate scientific language appropriate for nursing students
• Include visuals if possible (e.g., diagrams, slides, props)
• Speak clearly and stay within the 5-minute limit

Submit References

• Create a separate document (Word or pdf) listing all sources used (APA or MLA format)
• Upload this to the assignment folder along with your video

Respond to Your Colleagues (Part 2)

Respond to two (2) of your classmate’s videos. You may type your response or record video or audio. Look for areas in which your classmate’s ideas may differ from your own. You may respond to your classmates in one or more of the following ways:

• Ask thought-provoking questions
• Offer opinions supported by evidence
• Share a new insight you have gained from listening your classmate’s video note
• Expand upon your classmate’s post
• Offer an alternate idea or suggestion

Sample Video Note Outline: Type 2 Diabetes (Change as Needed for Different Diseases)

1. Introduction (30 seconds)

• Brief definition of Type 2 Diabetes
• Why it matters in nursing and public health

2. Biochemical Mechanism (1 minute)

• Role of glucose and insulin in normal metabolism
• What goes wrong: insulin resistance and elevated blood glucose
• Chemical pathways involved (glycolysis, insulin signaling)

3. Link to Excess Sugar/Carbohydrate Intake (1 minute)

• How high sugar diets contribute to insulin resistance
• Role of refined carbohydrates and added sugars
• Impact on pancreas and liver

4. Prevention Strategies (1 minute)

• Dietary changes (low glycemic index foods, fiber intake)
• Physical activity and weight management
• Patient education and community health programs

5. Treatment Options (1 minute)

• Medications (e.g., Metformin how it works chemically)
• Lifestyle interventions
• Role of nurses in monitoring and patient support

6. Conclusion (30 seconds)

• Summary of key points
• Importance of chemistry knowledge in nursing care