Early History and Evolution of Nutrition Science in the United States of America

Abstract

Nutrition Science in the 21st century dates back to at least before the 5th century BCE. Whereas early theories on the relationship between food and health outcomes were founded on philosophical thought or divine intervention, today's nutritionists source their advice from empirical evidence. This essay delineates and reconstructs nutrition science as the discipline evolves and progresses through scientific stages of change in early North America.