Glossary: Nutrition Essentials for Mental Health

Casein

A protein found in milk and dairy products linked with mood disorders, depression, schizophrenia, and eating disorders in individuals who test positive for casein sensitivity. About 50% of people sensitive to gluten are sensitive to casein. This is called "cross reactivity."

Celiac Disease

An autoimmune disorder in which ingested gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine, impairing nutrient absorption and causing digestive issues, fatigue, and weight loss, as well as long-term complications like osteoporosis and infertility. Adherence to a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet helps manage symptoms and prevent intestinal damage.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The brain and spinal cord integrate sensory input, coordinate motor responses, and manage cognitive functions such as thought, memory, and emotion. The CNS maintains homeostasis by regulating physiological processes and responding to internal and external stimuli.

Chlorophyll

A green pigment in plants, algae, and cyanobacteria essential for photosynthesis. It helps to cleanse and build the blood; inhibits bacterial growth and anaerobic yeasts and fungi in the digestive tract, purifying the body of toxins; is anti-inflammatory and helps to renew cells and support healthy gut microbiota; and helps to regulate calcium absorption. It is available in green powder and can be added to a smoothie or water. Chlorophyll is helpful for people with gut permeability and colon problems, fatigue-related conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome, adrenal fatigue, depression and fibromyalgia, and inflammatory bowel syndrome. 

Choline

An essential nutrient that plays a role in cell membrane structure, neurotransmitter synthesis, and lipid metabolism, crucial for maintaining overall health, particularly for brain development and function. It is a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter important for brain function, memory, and muscle control. Choline is found in foods such as eggs, liver, and soybeans.

Chrononutrition

The use of specific foods and supplements used at specific times to affect circadian rhythm, regulate metabolism, improve weight management, and enhance well-being. 

Circadian Rhythm

The approximately 24-hour internal cycle that aligns with the Earth’s light-dark cycle and regulates sleep-wake patterns, hormone release, and body temperature. Disruptions to the circadian rhythm, such as night shifts or jet lag, can negatively impact sleep quality, mood, and metabolic processes.

Colony-Forming Units (CFU)

CFU is the traditional method of measuring probiotic strength and is widely accepted in scientific studies and product labels. It only counts bacteria capable of forming colonies, which means it's a more conservative measure but may underestimate the total viable bacteria. CFU is a better measure when you want to focus strictly on bacteria that can reproduce and establish themselves in the gut, aligning with older standards. 

Cortisol

Asteroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a key role in the body's response to stress. It helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and blood sugar levels, and is involved in the body's "fight or flight" response. Cortisol levels typically peak in the morning and decline throughout the day, but chronic stress or certain medical conditions can lead to imbalances that impact health.

Cyanocobalamin

A synthetic form of vitamin B12 used to treat or prevent vitamin B12 deficiency. Cyanocobalamin is converted into active forms of vitamin B12 in the body and is often prescribed to individuals with absorption issues or those on a vegan diet, where natural sources of B12 are limited.

Cytokines

Small proteins released by cells that act as signaling molecules in the immune system, regulating and coordinating immune responses, influencing cell behavior by binding to specific receptors on their target cells, and affecting processes such as inflammation, cell growth, and immune response.