Glossary: Nutrition Essentials for Mental Health

The collection of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, that reside in the human gut, skin, or mouth. These microorganisms play important roles in digestion, immune function, and overall health. 

Membrane-bound organelles found in most eukaryotic cells, often called the "powerhouses" of the cell due to their role in producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cell’s main energy currency. They are involved in energy metabolism, cellular respiration, and apoptosis (programmed cell death). Mitochondria are crucial for maintaining cellular health and function. Mitochondrial dysfunction is linked to metabolic disorders and neurodegenerative conditions.

One of three types of metabolizers within the concept of bioindividuality, or how different individuals metabolize and respond to various oxidizing agents differently due to unique biological and genetic factors. The balanced/mixed oxidizers will burn efficiently using 35% protein, 35% carbohydrates, and 30% fats. 

A variation of the traditional Carnivore Diet, focusing on meat, fish, eggs, and animal fats while permitting small amounts of low-carb vegetables, fruits, or certain condiments. This approach offers the benefits of a carnivore diet while providing more flexibility and a broader range of nutrients.

A type of healthy fat characterized by having one double bond in their fatty acid chain. They are found in olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds. MUFAs are associated with improved heart health by lowering LDL cholesterol levels, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall metabolic health.

A client-centered, collaborative counseling method designed to enhance an individual's motivation to change. It focuses on building a trusting relationship between the counselor and client, open-ended questions, reflective listening, and affirmations, helping clients articulate their own reasons for change and develop a plan to achieve their goals. MI is commonly used in addiction treatment, weight management, and chronic disease management. 

Also known as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, MCS is a condition where individuals experience a range of symptoms in response to low levels of exposure to various chemicals and environmental toxins, such as perfumes, cleaning products, and pollutants. Symptoms can include headaches, fatigue, respiratory issues, and skin rashes.

Toxic substances that damage or disrupt the function of the nervous system, preventing nerves from functioning normally by interfering with their electrical activities. They are found in most packaged foods and include ingredients like dough conditioners; seasonings; yeast extract; carrageenan; maltodextrin; hydrolyzed vegetable protein; sodium fluoride; sodium caseinate; calcium caseinate; chicken, pork, or beef flavoring; disodium anything; smoke flavoring and anything called autolyzed; whey protein concentrate; natural flavors or spices; and additives such as glutamate and aspartate. They may also come from environmental pollutants, certain medications, heavy metals, and natural toxins from plants or animals. Exposure to neurotoxins can lead to a range of neurological issues, including cognitive deficits, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, motor dysfunction, and sensory impairments, and in severe cases, can cause neurodegenerative diseases or permanent neurological damage.

Chemical messengers that transmit signals across synapses from one neuron to another, playing a role in communication within the nervous system, influencing mood, cognition, and muscle movement. Examples of neurotransmitters include serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), each of which is involved in different aspects of neural function and health.

A group of plants belonging to the Solanaceae family, which includes tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and bell peppers. These plants contain compounds called alkaloids, such as solanine and capsaicin, which can be toxic in high amounts but are generally safe in typical dietary quantities. Some individuals, particularly those with autoimmune conditions or inflammatory issues, may experience adverse reactions to nightshades, leading to symptoms like joint pain, digestive problems, skin inflammation, with symptoms improving by avoiding or restricting these foods in the diet.

A condition characterized by gastrointestinal symptoms that occur after the consumption of gluten, in the absence of celiac disease or wheat allergy. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, headaches, fatigue, and joint pain. Unlike celiac disease, NCGS does not cause the same autoimmune damage to the small intestine, and the diagnosis is typically made through the exclusion of other conditions and observing symptom improvement on a gluten-free diet.

A neurotransmitter and hormone (also known as noradrenaline) that plays a key role in the body’s response to stress. As a neurotransmitter, it helps transmit signals in the brain related to attention, focus, and alertness, and it is involved in the "fight or flight" response by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and blood flow to muscles. As a hormone, norepinephrine is released by the adrenal glands into the bloodstream, influencing physiological responses and mood regulation. Its dysregulation is associated with conditions such as depression, anxiety, and cardiovascular disorders.

A restrictive diet designed to identify and eliminate specific food antigens that may be causing allergic or intolerant reactions. 

An essential fatty acid known as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) that plays a role in reducing inflammation and supporting heart health. ALA can be converted into other forms of omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA. Including ALA-rich foods in the diet, such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, contributes to overall cardiovascular health and helps maintain balanced lipid levels.

An essential fatty acid that helps maintain cell membrane structure and function. It serves as a precursor to other important bioactive compounds, including arachidonic acid, which is involved in inflammation and immune responses. Omega-6 is found in vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. Excessive intake of omega-6 relative to omega-3 fatty acids can promote inflammation and contribute to chronic diseases, so balancing these two EFAs is important for maintaining optimal health and reducing inflammation.