Glossary: Nutrition Essentials for Mental Health

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

Plants, animals, or microorganisms that have been genetically engineered with DNA from bacteria, viruses, or other plants and animals. These modifications are aimed at improving resistance to pests, enhancing nutritional content, or increasing crop yields. The use of GMOs has been restricted or banned in over 60 countries because of their potential impacts on health, the environment, and for ethical reasons. 

Glandulars

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.  

Gliadorphin

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. 

Glucagon-Like Peptide Agonists 1 (GPL-1)

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.

Glucoraphanin

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. 

Glucose

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

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. 

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)

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. 

Gut and Psychology Syndrome (GAPS) Diet

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.