Description: Lecture, two hours. Recent health trends and how they are portrayed in pop culture and media. Examination of scientific explanations behind current health crazes and determination if there is validity to these claims. Discussion of chemical principles, such as basic arrow pushing mechanisms, radical oxidations, etc. Investigation of variety of topics including vitamins, health and beauty supplements, sugar alternatives, detox/cleanses, and traditional medicines. Relevant for students who have taken organic chemistry classes and those who are interested in learning basic organic chemistry concepts. No college-level chemistry is required. P/NP or letter grading.

Units: 2.0