Glossary

When entering a new world, it is always useful to familiarize yourself with a few terms. I created a little glossary with definitions of certain words.

Orthomolecular Therapy: Orthomolecular therapy is a medical approach that involves the use of optimal levels of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients to maintain health and treat various medical conditions.
Leaky gut: "Leaky gut," or increased intestinal permeability, is a condition where the lining of the digestive tract becomes more porous, potentially allowing harmful substances like toxins and undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation and various health issues
IBS: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, discomfort, and changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both, without any identifiable structural or biochemical abnormalities.
Pesticides: Pesticides are chemical substances used to control or eliminate pests, including insects, weeds, fungi, and rodents, in agriculture, public health, and various other settings. While they can enhance crop yield and protect against diseases, improper use or exposure may pose risks to human health and the environment.
Parasites: Parasites are organisms that live on or inside another organism (host) and derive nutrients at the host's expense. They can cause various diseases in humans, animals, and plants, and examples include protozoa, helminths (worms), and ectoparasites like ticks and lice. Parasitic infections can range from mild to severe, and they are often transmitted through contaminated food, water, or vectors like mosquitoes.
Constipation: Constipation refers to infrequent, difficult, or painful bowel movements characterized by the slow passage of stool through the digestive tract. It can result from various factors, including a low-fiber diet, inadequate fluid intake, lack of physical activity, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions.
Diarrhea: Diarrhoea is a common digestive disorder characterized by the frequent passage of loose, watery stools. It can be caused by infections, viruses, bacteria, food intolerance, medications, or various gastrointestinal conditions. Dehydration is a potential concern with prolonged or severe cases of diarrhoea.
Zonulin: Zonulin is a protein that regulates the permeability of tight junctions between cells in the wall of the digestive tract. Increased levels of zonulin are associated with increased intestinal permeability, sometimes referred to as "leaky gut," and have been implicated in various gastrointestinal disorders and autoimmune conditions. Research on zonulin and its role in health and disease is ongoing.
Flatulence: Flatulence is the release of gas from the digestive system through the rectum. It is a natural and common bodily function resulting from the fermentation of undigested food in the intestines. If you have concerns about excessive or bothersome flatulence, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.
Fatigue: Fatigue is a state of persistent tiredness, weakness, or exhaustion that can result from physical or mental exertion, lack of sleep, underlying medical conditions, or other factors, and it often interferes with daily activities and overall well-being.
Inflammation: Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury, infection, or irritation, characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain. It is a protective mechanism that involves the immune system and various signaling molecules to eliminate harmful stimuli and initiate the healing process. Chronic inflammation, however, can contribute to various diseases.
Silent inflammation: This term is often used to describe low-grade or chronic inflammation that occurs in the body without obvious external symptoms. Silent inflammation may contribute to various health issues and is associated with conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.
Autoimmune disorder: An autoimmune disorder is a condition in which the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the body's own tissues, considering them foreign. This immune response can lead to inflammation, tissue damage, and a variety of symptoms. Examples of autoimmune disorders include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, type 1 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis.
Glucose spikes: Glucose spikes refer to sudden and temporary increases in blood glucose levels. These spikes often occur after consuming meals or snacks that are rich in carbohydrates, particularly those with a high glycemic index. Managing glucose spikes is important, especially for individuals with diabetes, as frequent or prolonged elevated blood sugar levels can have adverse health effects over time.
Glucose: Glucose is a simple sugar and a primary source of energy for cells in the body. It is a crucial component of carbohydrates and is obtained through the digestion of food, especially carbohydrates like sugars and starches. Glucose circulates in the bloodstream, and its levels are tightly regulated by hormones, particularly insulin and glucagon. Proper glucose regulation is essential for overall health, and abnormalities in glucose metabolism can lead to conditions like diabetes.
Protein: Proteins are large, complex molecules made up of amino acids, and they play fundamental roles in the structure, function, and regulation of tissues and organs in living organisms. Proteins are involved in various biological processes, including enzymatic reactions, cell signaling, immune response, and structural support. They are essential for the growth, repair, and maintenance of tissues in the body. Dietary sources of protein include meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
Fat: Fat is a macronutrient that provides energy and serve various functions in the body. It plays a crucial role in the structure of cell membranes, the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and the synthesis of hormones.
Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are the body's primary source of energy. They are broken down into glucose, which cells use for fuel. Carbs also play a role in supporting the central nervous system and promoting overall digestive health.
Minerals: Minerals are inorganic nutrients that play crucial roles in various physiological functions within the human body. They are essential for the maintenance of good health, and they contribute to the structural development of tissues, nerve function, fluid balance, and many biochemical reactions. Here are some key minerals and their functions (Calcium, Iron, Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium, Zinc, Copper, Phosphorus, Selenium, Iodine, Chromium)
Vitamins: Vitamins are organic compounds that are essential for the proper functioning and maintenance of the human body. They play crucial roles in various physiological processes, including metabolism, immune function, and growth (Vitamin A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B8, B9, B12, Vitamin C, D, E, K, F, P)
Fat-soluble vitamins: Fat-soluble vitamins are a group of vitamins that dissolve in fat and are stored in the body's fatty tissues. These vitamins are absorbed along with dietary fats and are generally stored in the liver and adipose tissue (K,A,D,E)
Water-soluble vitamins: Water-soluble vitamins are a group of vitamins that dissolve in water and are not stored in the body to a significant extent. Instead, they are excreted through urine, and regular intake is necessary to maintain adequate levels (Vitamin C and B-vitamins).
Nutrients: Nutrients are substances that the body needs to function properly. They provide energy, support growth and development, and help maintain overall health. There are two main categories of nutrients: macronutrients and micronutrients.
Macronutrients: Carbs, fats and protein.
Micronutrients: Vitamins and minerals.