Buzz Words/Glossary
Alkaline Water: Water that has a higher pH level than regular drinking water. Some people believe it can neutralize acid in the body and provide health benefits, but there is not enough scientific evidence to support these claims.
Artificial Flavoring : Chemical compounds added to food or drinks to give them a specific taste. They are not derived from natural sources and can sometimes cause health concerns.
Artificial Sweeteners: Low-calorie sugar substitutes that are used in place of sugar in food and drinks. They are often used by people who are trying to reduce their sugar intake or manage their weight.
Amino acids: Building blocks of proteins, which are essential for the growth and repair of muscles, bones, and other tissues in the body.
Antioxidants: Compounds found in food that can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and disease.
Biological Value: A measure of how well the body can absorb and use the protein in food.
Body Mass Index (5% minimum): A measure of body fat based on a person's height and weight. It is used to assess whether a person is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.
Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): The number of calories the body burns at rest to maintain basic functions, such as breathing and circulation.
Caffeine : A stimulant found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and some soft drinks. It can increase alertness and improve performance, but excessive consumption can lead to negative side effects.
Carbs/ Carbohydrates: A macronutrient that provides energy to the body. Carbohydrates are found in foods such as bread, pasta, fruits, and vegetables
Calories: A unit of measurement used to quantify the energy content of food and drinks
Cholesterol: A waxy substance found in the blood that can contribute to heart disease if levels are too high.
Creatine: A natural substance found in muscle cells that can improve athletic performance
Enriched: Refers to a food that has had nutrients added to it, typically to replace those lost during processing.
Enzymes: Proteins that help facilitate chemical reactions in the body.
Electrolytes: Minerals, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium, that help regulate fluid balance and muscle function in the body.
Fats (Good vs Bad): A macronutrient that provides energy and is essential for cell growth and function. Unsaturated fats (found in foods such as nuts, seeds, and fish) are considered "good" fats, while saturated fats (found in foods such as meat and dairy) are considered "bad" fats.
Flavoring: A substance added to food or drinks to give them a specific taste.
Fortified: Refers to a food that has had nutrients added to it, typically to provide additional health benefits
Food Pyramid A visual representation of how much of each food group (such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins) should be consumed for a healthy diet.
Gluten: A protein found in wheat, barley, and rye that can cause digestive problems in people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
GMO: Genetically modified organism, refers to crops or animals that have been genetically engineered for specific traits.
Hydration: The process of getting enough water and other fluids to maintain optimal bodily function.
Keto/ Ketosis: A diet that is high in fat, moderate in protein, and very low in carbohydrates that aims to put the body into a metabolic state called ketosis. In ketosis, the body switches from using glucose for energy to using ketones, which are produced from the breakdown of fats in the liver.
Low-Fat: Refers to foods that have had most of their fat removed or contain only a small amount of fat. Low-fat diets are often recommended for weight loss or for managing certain health conditions such as high cholesterol.
Metabolism Part 1 (part 2 here): The chemical processes that occur in the body to maintain life, including the conversion of food into energy. Part 1 of metabolism, known as catabolism, involves the breakdown of nutrients into simpler molecules and the release of energy. Part 2, anabolism, involves the building up of complex molecules from simpler ones using the energy released in part 1.
Minerals: Inorganic substances that the body needs in small amounts to maintain proper functioning of various bodily systems. Examples of minerals include calcium, iron, potassium, and zinc
Natural: Refers to foods that are minimally processed and do not contain added artificial ingredients or preservatives. However, the term is not well-defined or regulated, so it can be used in a variety of ways by food manufacturers.
Organic: Refers to foods that have been grown or raised without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or other chemicals, and that meet specific standards set by regulatory agencies.
Pasteurized: A process that heats food or beverage to a high temperature to kill harmful bacteria and increase its shelf life. Most milk, juice, and other beverages sold in grocery stores are pasteurized.
Protein: A macro-nutrient that is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, including muscles, bones, and organs. Protein is found in a variety of foods, including meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, and nuts.
Prebiotics & probiotics: Prebiotics are types of fiber that are not digestible by humans but serve as food for beneficial bacteria in the gut, while probiotics are live microorganisms that can confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. Both prebiotics and probiotics are believed to support gut health.
Prework Out: Refers to supplements or foods that are consumed before a workout to enhance energy, focus, and performance. Examples include caffeine, creatine, and certain amino acids.
Processed foods: Foods that have been altered from their natural state through various methods, such as canning, freezing, drying, or adding preservatives, flavorings, or other ingredients. Some processed foods can be nutritious, while others may be high in added sugars, salt, or unhealthy fats.
Salt: A mineral that is composed of sodium and chloride and is used to enhance the flavor of food. While the body needs some sodium to maintain proper fluid balance and nerve function, most people consume more than the recommended daily limit, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems.
Sugars: Simple carbohydrates that occur naturally in foods such as fruit and milk, or are added to foods during processing. Sugars provide energy to the body but excessive consumption can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems.
Sugar Free: Refers to foods or beverages that are made without added sugars, although they may still contain natural sugars or artificial sweeteners.
Saturated/ Unsaturated fats: Are typically solid at room temperature and are commonly found in animal products like meat and dairy. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase your risk of heart disease and other health problems. Unsaturated fats, on the other hand, are typically liquid at room temperature and are commonly found in plant-based foods like nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. Unsaturated fats can help improve cholesterol levels and lower your risk of heart disease when consumed in moderation.
Water Loading: Water loading is a practice of drinking large amounts of water to temporarily increase the body's water weight. It is commonly used by athletes who compete in sports with weight classes, such as wrestling or boxing, to meet weight requirements for their desired class. However, water loading can be dangerous if done improperly, as it can lead to dehydration and other health problems.
Whey Protein: Whey protein is a type of protein that is extracted from milk during the cheese-making process. It is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs. Whey protein is commonly used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to help build and repair muscle tissue, but it can also be used as a dietary supplement for people who do not consume enough protein in their diet.
Vitamins: Vitamins are organic compounds that the body needs in small amounts to function properly. They play a crucial role in maintaining good health, supporting immune function, and preventing chronic diseases. There are 13 essential vitamins, including vitamins A, C, D, E, K, and the B vitamins. Each vitamin has a specific function in the body and can be found in a variety of foods or taken as dietary supplements.
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