Glossary: Nutrition Essentials for Mental Health

Dietary supplements made from animal glands or tissues, such as adrenal, thyroid, or pituitary glands, which support the function of corresponding human glands, improving hormone balance and overall glandular health.  

A peptide derived from the partial digestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It is similar in structure to certain opioid peptides and may play a role in the symptoms of conditions like autism and celiac disease. 

A class of medications used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity, including liraglutide, exenatide, and semaglutide. These drugs mimic the action of the naturally occurring hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon release, and slowing gastric emptying. GLP-1 agonists also promote weight loss and improve cardiovascular outcomes.

A naturally occurring compound found in cruciferous vegetables, particularly in broccoli, that acts as a precursor to sulforaphane. When metabolized, glucoraphanin converts to sulforaphane, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. This compound plays a role in reducing oxidative stress, detoxification, and lowering the risk of certain cancers. 

A simple sugar and source of energy for the body's cells. It is absorbed from digested carbohydrates and is transported to cells where it is used in cellular respiration to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the source of energy for the cell. Hormones such as insulin and glucagon regulate blood glucose to maintain energy balance and overall metabolic homeostasis. High or low blood glucose levels affect mental functioning.  

Gluten is composed of the proteins gliadin (a prolamin protein) and glutenin found in wheat, barley, and rye, that can cause immune system reactions and gastrointestinal issues in individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. 

Also known as mucopolysaccharides, GAGs are linear polysaccharides that are made up of repeating disaccharide units. They are found in every mammalian tissue and have many functions in the body, including cell signaling and development, angiogenesis, anti-coagulation, tumor progression, axonal growth, and metastasis. 

A dietary regimen undertaken in specific stages designed to improve gut health and address conditions such as autism spectrum disorders, ADD/ADHD, dyspraxia, dyslexia, and schizophrenia in particular, but it may be beneficial for everyone who is reactive to dairy and gluten. It focuses on (1) healing the gut, (2) restoring beneficial bacteria to the gut, and (3) detoxification. The diet emphasizes nutrient-dense, whole foods, homemade broths, and fermented foods, while eliminating processed foods, sugars, and certain grains and starches to support gut healing and reduce inflammation.

HDL and LDL are types of lipoproteins that transport cholesterol in the blood. HDL ("good" cholesterol) helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transports it to the liver for excretion. High levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. LDL ("bad" cholesterol) carries cholesterol from the liver to the cells. Elevated levels of LDL can lead to cholesterol buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Maintaining a healthy balance between HDL and LDL is crucial for cardiovascular health.

A blood test that measures low levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation. The hs-CRP test is used to assess chronic, low-grade inflammation and evaluate the risk of heart disease and stroke. Elevated hs-CRP levels may indicate increased inflammation in the body, associated with infections, autoimmune diseases, and chronic inflammatory disorders.

A measure of body fat distribution, calculated by dividing the circumference of the waist by the circumference of the hips. This ratio assesses abdominal fat relative to total body fat. A higher ratio indicates a greater concentration of abdominal fat, which is linked to a higher risk of metabolic and cardiovascular conditions.

A neurotransmitter released from mast cells that is necessary for healthy immune function. However high levels of histamine can cause allergic reactions and inflammation, causing symptoms like itching, swelling, and increased mucus production. In addition, excess histamine is associated with mood disorders. Histamine also plays a role in regulating stomach acid secretion and influencing sleep-wake cycles. 

An amino acid in the blood produced during the metabolism of methionine, an essential amino acid. Elevated levels of homocysteine are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases as it can promote arterial damage and blood clot formation. Vitamins B6, B12, and folate are crucial for maintaining normal homocysteine levels and reducing cardiovascular risk. 

An acid produced in the stomach for digestion and absorption of nutrients. It breaks down proteins, activates digestive enzymes, and kills harmful microorganisms. Hydrochloric acid is crucial for effective digestion and preventing gastrointestinal infections, and imbalances can lead to conditions such as acid reflux or gastritis.

A condition characterized by overbreathing causing an excessive loss of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the blood. This decrease in blood CO2 levels leads to symptoms such as lightheadedness, tingling in the limbs, and shortness of breath. Hyperventilation can be triggered by anxiety, stress, or certain medical conditions.