Nutrition & Supplements Glossary

I. What are Ultra-Processed Foods? Ultra-processed foods are products that have undergone extensive processing and contain a high amount of additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients. These foods are typically low in essential nutrients and high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and salt. Examples of ultra-processed foods include sugary drinks, packaged snacks, fast food, and ready-to-eat meals. … Read more

I. What is Nutrition? Nutrition is the process of providing the body with the necessary nutrients it needs to function properly. These nutrients come from the food we eat and are essential for growth, energy, and overall health. A well-balanced diet that includes a variety of foods from all food groups is key to maintaining … Read more

I. What is a Food Diary? A food diary is a tool used to track and monitor what you eat and drink on a daily basis. It is a record of your dietary intake that can help you become more aware of your eating habits and make healthier choices. Keeping a food diary can also … Read more

I. What is Nutrient Density? Nutrient density refers to the amount of essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, found in a particular food compared to the number of calories it contains. In other words, nutrient-dense foods provide a high amount of nutrients relative to their calorie content. These foods are considered to be … Read more

I. What is a Plant-Based Diet? A plant-based diet is a dietary approach that focuses on consuming foods primarily derived from plants. This means that the majority of your meals consist of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Plant-based diets typically exclude or limit the consumption of animal products such as meat, dairy, … Read more

I. What is Community Nutrition? Community nutrition is a branch of public health that focuses on promoting health and preventing disease within a specific community or population. It involves assessing the nutritional needs of a community, developing and implementing programs to address those needs, and evaluating the impact of those programs on the health of … Read more

I. What are Superfoods? Superfoods are nutrient-dense foods that are considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being. These foods are typically rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients that can help to boost the immune system, improve digestion, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Some examples of superfoods include berries, … Read more

I. What is inflammation? Inflammation is a natural response by the body’s immune system to protect against harmful stimuli such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. It is a crucial part of the body’s defense mechanism and helps to heal injuries and fight off infections. However, when inflammation becomes chronic, it can lead to various … Read more

I. What are Complete Proteins? Complete proteins are proteins that contain all nine essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. These essential amino acids are crucial for various bodily functions, including building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and producing enzymes and hormones. Complete proteins are often referred to as high-quality … Read more

I. What are Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (ULs)? Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (ULs) are the highest amount of a nutrient that can be consumed daily without causing adverse health effects in the general population. ULs are established by the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine and are used as a guideline for … Read more