Nutrition is a multidisciplinary field that can provide an understanding of how food intake can affect health. The importance of nutrition in disease prevention has received attention and focus in Malaysia. Nutrition begins with a strong foundation of nutrition science. It covers an understanding of how food is produced and processed. It also covers how nutrients are derived from food, as well as the metabolic effects of consuming a variety of foods on health. Social and psychological factors that influence food choices are also important. A multidisciplinary approach is needed to understand these areas including support courses such as biochemistry, food science, physiology, communication skills and environmental health.