Glossary: Nutrition Essentials for Mental Health

Elimination Diet

A dietary strategy used to identify and manage food sensitivities, allergies, or intolerances. Specific foods or food groups are eliminated from the diet for a period of time, then gradually reintroduced one at a time while monitoring symptoms. This helps to identify which foods may be causing adverse reactions and to tailor the diet to avoid those triggers, thereby improving overall health and well-being. 

End of Life Care

End of life care encompasses the comprehensive support and medical treatment provided when a person is nearing the end of life, including physical, emotional, and spiritual care. It emphasizes comfort, dignity, and enchancing quality of life for the patient and also addresses the needs of the families during this difficult time.

Endocannabinoid (eCB) System

A complex cell signaling system in the body that is involved in all aspects of mental and physical health, including mood, pain, appetite, addiction, immune response, the microbiome and gut permeability, the stress response, obesity and eating disorders, and the “bliss states.” It consists of endocannabinoids (naturally occurring lipid-based neurotransmitters), cannabinoid receptors (such as CB1 and CB2), and enzymes that synthesize and degrade endocannabinoids. This system helps maintain homeostasis by modulating neurotransmitter release and maintaining balance in response to changes in the internal and external environment. 

Endocannabinoid Deficiency Syndrome (ECDS)

Deficiency or dysfunction in the endocannabinoid system contributing to chronic pain, migraines, fibromyalgia, and certain mood disorders. Proposed by Ethan Russo, M.D. 

Epigenetics

The study of changes in gene expression or cellular phenotype that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence. It refers to internal and external exposures which can activate or silence genes. These modifications can be influenced by environmental factors, lifestyle and nutrition, and developmental stages, and they play a crucial role in development, aging, and disease. 

Epinephrine

A hormone and neurotransmitter (also known as adrenaline) produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress or danger. It plays a vital role in the body's "fight or flight" response by increasing heart rate, dilating airways, and mobilizing glucose from energy stores to prepare the body for immediate action. Epinephrine also affects blood flow to muscles and enhances mental alertness, helping individuals respond quickly to stressful situations.

Epstein-Barr Virus

A member of the herpesvirus family and one of the most common human viruses, causing infectious mononucleosis ("mono" or "kissing disease"), characterized by symptoms like fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. EBV is also transmitted through saliva or other bodily fluids, and is associated with some cancers and autoimmune diseases. 

Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)

Polyunsaturated fats that the body cannot synthesize on its own that must be obtained through the diet, primarily omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-3s, found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, are crucial for brain function, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health. Omega-6s from vegetable oils and nuts are important for skin health and immune function.