| Term |
Definition |
| Amino Acids |
A group of compunds that serve as the building blocks from which protein and muscle are made. |
| Antioxidants |
Small compounds that minimize tissue oxidation and help control free radicals and their negative effects. |
| Calories |
The unit for measuring the energy value of foods. |
| Carbohydrates |
Organic compounds containing carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are a very effective fuel source for the body. The different types of carbohydrates include starches, sugars and fibers. Contains 4 calories per gram. |
| Glucose |
The simplest sugar molecule. It is also the main sugar found in blood, used by every cell in the body as fuel. |
| Cholesterol |
A type of fat that is a vital component in the production of many hormones in the body. The two most common types are HDL (good) and LDL (bad). |
| Essential Fatty Acids |
Fats our bodies can't make, so we must obtain them through our diets. These fats are very important to hormone production and cellular synthesis. |
| Fat |
One of the macronutrients. It contains 9 calories per gram. There are two types, saturated and unsaturated. |
| Fructose |
The main type of sugar found in fruit. |
| Glycogen |
The principal stored form of carbohydrate energy (glucose), which is reserved in muscles. |
| Metabolism |
The use of nutrients by the body. |
| Minerals |
Naturally occuring, inorganic substances that are essential for human life, which play a role in many vital metabolic processes. |
| Nutrients |
Components of food that help nourish the body; they provide energy or serve as building blocks. These include carbohydrates, protein, fats, vitamins, minerals, water, etc. |
| Proteins |
The building blocks of muscle, enzymes, and some hormones. They are made up of amino acids and are essential for growth and repair in the body. A gram of protein contains 4 calories. |
| Supplement |
This is a term used to describe a preparation such as a tablet, pill, liquid or powder that contains nutrients. Supplements are used to help you achieve optimal nutrient intake. |
| Vitamins |
Organic compounds that are vital to life and bodily function. |
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