• Antioxidants: Compounds that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

  • Blood Sugar Levels: The amount of glucose present in the blood, important for managing diabetes.

  • BMI (Body Mass Index): A measure of body fat based on height and weight.

  • Caloric Intake: The number of calories consumed through food and drink.

  • Cholesterol: A type of fat found in the blood that can impact heart health.

  • Chronic Disease Prevention: Reducing the risk of diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension through lifestyle changes.

  • DASH Diet: DASH, or Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, is a dietary plan designed to help prevent and manage high blood pressure by focusing on eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy, while reducing sodium and saturated fats.

  • Diet: The kinds of food that are habitually, or regularly, consumed.

  • Dietary Fiber: A type of carbohydrate that the body can’t digest, important for digestive health.

  • Digestive Health: Addressing issues such as bloating, constipation, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) through diet and lifestyle changes.

  • Electrolytes: Minerals carrying an electric charge that help the body stay hydrated, among other health benefits.

  • Enhanced Immune Function: Strengthening the immune system to better fend off illnesses and infections.

  • Food Sensitivities: Reactions to certain foods that can cause symptoms like bloating or discomfort.

  • Glycemic Index: A measure of how quickly foods raise blood sugar levels.

  • Healthy Aging: Maintaining vitality and independence as one ages, focusing on bone health, cognitive function, and mobility.

  • Hydration: The importance of water and fluids in maintaining health.

  • Increased Longevity: Aiming for a longer, healthier life by adopting habits that promote overall well-being.

  • Intermittent Fasting: An eating pattern that alternates between periods of fasting and eating.

  • Ketogenic Diet: A high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet designed to put the body into a state of ketosis.

  • Lifestyle Balance: Achieving a balance between work, leisure, and self-care to reduce burnout and increase overall happiness.

  • Macronutrients: Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

  • Mediterranean Diet: A diet inspired by the traditional eating patterns of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, olive oil, fish, with limited red meat and processed foods.

  • Metabolic Health: When your body can use food in a way that reduces your risk of developing certain health conditions.

  • Metabolism: The process by which the body converts food into energy.

  • Micronutrients: Vitamins and minerals.

  • MyPlate: Developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, MyPlate is a simplified eating plan that replaces the former food pyramid. It makes it easier to visualize appropriate portions of fruits, grains, proteins, dairy, and vegetables.

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential fats found in fish and flaxseeds that support heart health.

  • Plant-Based Diet: A diet that centers on foods derived from plants, including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes, and generally minimizes or excludes animal products. Variations include: vegan, lacto-vegetarian, ovo-vegetarian, lacto-ovo vegetarian, pescatarian, pollotarian, flexitarian.

  • Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria that support gut health.

  • Protein: The building blocks of life. All cells in the human body contain protein, which are chains of amino acids. Proteins help the body repair cells and make new ones. They are also important for growth and development.

  • Protein Supplements: Products used to increase protein intake, such as whey or plant-based protein powders.

  • Superfoods: Nutrient-rich foods considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being.

  • Ultra-Processed Foods: Foods that have been heavily processed and often contain artificial ingredients, preservatives, sweeteners, and unhealthy fats, such as sugary snacks, fast food, and packaged meals.

  • Weight Management: Achieving or maintaining a healthy weight through diet, exercise, or other lifestyle changes.

  • Whole Foods: Foods that are minimally processed or refined and free from artificial additives, including fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and unprocessed meats.

Common Health and Nutrition Terms