Health & Wellness Glossary
Understanding health starts with understanding the language. Browse our A-Z glossary of 184 evidence-based health and wellness terms.
A
Absorption
The process by which nutrients from digested food pass through the intestinal wall into the bloodstream.
Read moreMedicationAcetaminophen
A common over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer, also known as paracetamol.
Read moreAlternative MedicineAcupuncture
A traditional Chinese medicine practice involving the insertion of thin needles into specific body points to relieve pain and treat conditions.
Read moreNatural RemediesAdaptogen
A natural substance that helps the body adapt to stress and promotes normal physiological function.
Read moreBody CompositionAdipose Tissue
Body fat tissue that stores energy, provides insulation, and produces hormones that influence appetite and metabolism.
Read moreFitnessAerobic Exercise
Physical activity that increases heart rate and breathing, using oxygen to meet energy demands over sustained periods.
Read moreAllergyAllergen
A substance that triggers an allergic reaction in the immune system, such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods.
Read moreNutritionAmino Acids
Organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins, essential for muscle growth, immune function, and cellular repair.
Read moreBloodAnemia
A condition in which the blood lacks adequate healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to fatigue and weakness.
Read moreNutritionAntioxidant
A molecule that inhibits the oxidation of other molecules, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Read moreJointsArthritis
Inflammation of one or more joints causing pain, swelling, and stiffness that can worsen with age.
Read moreNatural RemediesAshwagandha
An ancient medicinal herb (Withania somnifera) used in Ayurvedic medicine to reduce stress and anxiety.
Read moreImmuneAutoimmune Disease
A condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Type 1 diabetes.
Read moreNatural RemediesAyurveda
An ancient Indian system of medicine emphasizing balance between body, mind, and spirit through diet, herbal treatment, and yogic breathing.
Read moreB
Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)
The number of calories your body needs at rest to maintain basic life-sustaining functions like breathing and circulation.
Read moreVitaminsBeta-Carotene
A plant pigment converted to vitamin A in the body, found in orange and dark green vegetables.
Read moreNutritionBioavailability
The proportion of a nutrient or substance that is absorbed and available for use by the body.
Read moreVitaminsBiotin
A B vitamin (B7) important for metabolism, hair growth, and nail strength, found in eggs, nuts, and whole grains.
Read moreCardiovascularBlood Pressure
The force of circulating blood against the walls of arteries, measured as systolic over diastolic pressure.
Read moreFitnessBMI
Body Mass Index -- a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women.
Read moreWeightBody Mass Index (BMI)
A numerical value calculated from height and weight used as a screening tool for weight categories, though it has significant limitations.
Read moreBone HealthBone Density
A measure of the mineral content in bones, indicating bone strength and risk for osteoporosis.
Read moreMental HealthBurnout
A state of chronic physical and emotional exhaustion resulting from prolonged stress, often related to work demands.
Read moreC
Caffeine
A natural stimulant found in coffee, tea, and chocolate that increases alertness and can enhance physical performance.
Read moreMineralsCalcium
The most abundant mineral in the body, essential for bone strength, muscle contraction, and nerve signaling.
Read moreNutritionCaloric Deficit
A state in which you consume fewer calories than your body expends, leading to weight loss over time.
Read moreNutritionCalorie
A unit of energy from food. Your body needs calories to function, but excess calories are stored as fat.
Read moreNutritionCarbohydrate
A macronutrient and primary energy source found in grains, fruits, vegetables, and sugars, classified as simple or complex.
Read moreHeartCardiovascular
Relating to the heart and blood vessels. Cardiovascular health is a primary indicator of overall wellness and longevity.
Read moreAutoimmuneCeliac Disease
An autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten ingestion, causing damage to the small intestine and nutrient malabsorption.
Read moreHeart HealthCholesterol
A waxy substance in blood needed for cell building. High levels of LDL cholesterol increase heart disease risk.
Read moreHealthChronic Disease
A long-lasting health condition that generally cannot be cured but can often be managed through lifestyle changes and treatment.
Read moreSleepCircadian Rhythm
The body's internal 24-hour clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles, hormone release, and other biological processes.
Read moreSupplementsCoenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
A naturally occurring compound that helps generate energy in cells and acts as an antioxidant, declining with age.
Read moreBrain HealthCognitive Function
Mental processes including memory, attention, reasoning, and problem-solving that can be maintained through lifestyle choices.
Read moreProteinCollagen
The most abundant protein in the body, providing structure to skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments.
Read moreMental HealthCortisol
The body's primary stress hormone, produced by the adrenal glands, that regulates metabolism, inflammation, and the sleep-wake cycle.
Read moreSupplementsCreatine
A compound found in muscle cells that helps produce energy during high-intensity exercise, one of the most researched supplements.
Read moreD
DASH Diet
Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, an eating plan rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy designed to lower blood pressure.
Read moreSleepDeep Sleep
The most restorative sleep stage (N3/slow-wave sleep) when tissue repair, growth hormone release, and memory consolidation occur.
Read moreHydrationDehydration
A condition resulting from insufficient water intake or excessive fluid loss, affecting physical and cognitive performance.
Read moreBrain HealthDementia
A general term for a decline in cognitive ability severe enough to interfere with daily life, with Alzheimer's being the most common type.
Read moreLiverDetoxification
The body's natural process of neutralizing and eliminating toxins, primarily through the liver and kidneys.
Read moreBlood SugarDiabetes
A chronic condition affecting how the body processes blood sugar (glucose), including Type 1, Type 2, and gestational forms.
Read moreNutritionDietary Fiber
Plant-based carbohydrates that the body cannot digest, essential for digestive health, blood sugar regulation, and satiety.
Read moreHydrationDiuretic
A substance that promotes urine production and water loss, including certain medications, caffeine, and some herbal teas.
Read moreFitnessDOMS
Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness -- muscle pain and stiffness that develops 24-72 hours after unfamiliar or intense exercise.
Read moreNeuroscienceDopamine
A neurotransmitter that plays roles in pleasure, motivation, movement, and reward-driven learning.
Read moreE
Eczema
A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, inflamed patches, often triggered by allergens, stress, or environmental factors.
Read moreOmega-3Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA)
An omega-3 fatty acid found primarily in fatty fish, studied for anti-inflammatory effects and cardiovascular benefits.
Read moreNutritionElectrolyte
Minerals in the body that carry an electric charge and are essential for nerve function, muscle contraction, and hydration balance.
Read moreHydrationElectrolytes
Minerals in blood and body fluids that carry an electric charge, essential for hydration, nerve function, and muscle contraction.
Read moreExerciseEndorphins
Natural brain chemicals that reduce pain perception and create feelings of well-being, often released during exercise.
Read moreNutritionEssential Fatty Acids
Fats the body cannot produce on its own (omega-3 and omega-6) that must come from diet, critical for brain and heart health.
Read moreAromatherapyEssential Oils
Concentrated plant extracts used in aromatherapy and topical applications, requiring proper dilution for safe use.
Read moreHormonesEstrogen
A primary female sex hormone involved in reproductive health, bone density, and cardiovascular function.
Read moreF
Fascia
The connective tissue that surrounds muscles, bones, and organs, playing a role in movement, posture, and pain.
Read moreNutritionFasting
The voluntary abstinence from food and sometimes drink for a period of time, studied for metabolic and longevity benefits.
Read moreLiverFatty Liver
A condition where excess fat builds up in liver cells, often linked to diet, obesity, and alcohol consumption.
Read moreGut HealthFermented Foods
Foods transformed by beneficial bacteria or yeasts, such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut, supporting gut microbiome diversity.
Read moreIronFerritin
A blood protein that stores iron. Ferritin levels indicate the body's iron reserves and help diagnose iron deficiency.
Read moreAntioxidantsFlavonoid
A class of plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties found in fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine.
Read moreVitaminsFolate
A B vitamin (B9) essential for DNA synthesis and cell division, critically important during pregnancy for preventing neural tube defects.
Read moreNutritionFree Radical
An unstable atom or molecule with an unpaired electron that can damage cells and contribute to aging and disease.
Read moreNutritionFunctional Food
Foods that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition, such as fortified cereals, probiotic yogurt, or omega-3 enriched eggs.
Read moreG
GABA
Gamma-aminobutyric acid, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that promotes calm and relaxation, counterbalancing excitatory brain signals.
Read moreDigestionGastritis
Inflammation of the stomach lining that can cause pain, nausea, and bloating, triggered by infection, medications, or diet.
Read moreJointsGlucosamine
A compound found naturally in cartilage, taken as a supplement to support joint health and potentially reduce arthritis symptoms.
Read moreBlood SugarGlucose
The simplest form of sugar and the body's primary energy source, regulated in the blood by insulin and glucagon.
Read moreNutritionGluten
A protein found in wheat, barley, and rye that causes adverse reactions in people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Read moreBlood SugarGlycemic Index
A ranking system for carbohydrates based on how quickly they raise blood sugar levels after eating.
Read moreEnergyGlycogen
The stored form of glucose in muscles and liver, serving as a readily available energy reserve during physical activity.
Read moreNutritionGut Microbiome
The complex community of trillions of microorganisms living in the digestive tract that influences digestion, immunity, and mental health.
Read moreH
HDL Cholesterol
High-density lipoprotein, often called 'good' cholesterol, which helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream.
Read moreHeart HealthHeart Rate Variability (HRV)
The variation in time between heartbeats, used as a marker of autonomic nervous system health and recovery readiness.
Read moreBloodHemoglobin
The protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
Read moreNatural RemediesHerbal Medicine
The use of plants and plant extracts for therapeutic purposes, one of the oldest forms of healthcare practiced worldwide.
Read moreAllergyHistamine
A compound released by immune cells during allergic reactions, causing symptoms like sneezing, itching, and swelling.
Read moreNatural RemediesHomeostasis
The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions (like temperature and pH) despite changes in the external environment.
Read moreBiologyHormesis
The concept that moderate exposure to a stressor (like exercise or fasting) can trigger beneficial adaptive responses.
Read moreEndocrineHormone
Chemical messengers produced by glands that travel through the bloodstream to regulate bodily functions including growth, metabolism, and mood.
Read moreBlood PressureHypertension
Persistently elevated blood pressure (typically above 130/80 mmHg) that increases risk for heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
Read moreBlood SugarHypoglycemia
Abnormally low blood sugar that can cause shakiness, confusion, and sweating, common in people with diabetes.
Read moreThyroidHypothyroidism
A condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to fatigue, weight gain, and cold sensitivity.
Read moreI
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
A common digestive disorder causing abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits without visible structural damage.
Read moreImmunityImmune System
The body's complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that defends against infections, diseases, and harmful substances.
Read moreImmuneImmunoglobulin
Antibody proteins produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize pathogens like bacteria and viruses.
Read moreNatural RemediesInflammation
The body's immune response to injury, infection, or irritants, characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain.
Read moreHormonesInsulin
A hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar by allowing cells to absorb glucose for energy.
Read moreDiabetesInsulin Resistance
A condition where cells respond poorly to insulin, requiring more insulin to manage blood sugar, often preceding Type 2 diabetes.
Read moreMineralsIodine
A trace mineral essential for thyroid hormone production, found in seafood, dairy, and iodized salt.
Read moreMineralsIron
An essential mineral needed for oxygen transport in blood. Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide.
Read moreExerciseIsometric Exercise
Exercises where muscles contract without joint movement, such as wall sits and planks, effective for strength and blood pressure.
Read moreK
Kefir
A fermented milk drink rich in probiotics, protein, and calcium, associated with improved digestion and gut microbiome diversity.
Read moreDietKetogenic Diet
A very low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that shifts the body into ketosis, studied for weight loss and neurological conditions.
Read moreMetabolismKetosis
A metabolic state where the body uses fat as its primary fuel source instead of carbohydrates, producing ketone bodies.
Read moreL
L-Theanine
An amino acid found in tea leaves that promotes relaxation without drowsiness and may improve focus when combined with caffeine.
Read moreDigestionLactose Intolerance
The inability to fully digest lactose (milk sugar) due to insufficient lactase enzyme, causing digestive discomfort.
Read moreHeart HealthLDL Cholesterol
Low-density lipoprotein, often called 'bad' cholesterol, which can build up in artery walls and increase cardiovascular risk.
Read moreBody CompositionLean Body Mass
Total body weight minus fat mass, including muscle, bone, organs, and water. Maintaining lean mass is important for metabolic health.
Read moreEye HealthLutein
A carotenoid antioxidant concentrated in the eyes, important for protecting against age-related macular degeneration.
Read moreAntioxidantsLycopene
A red pigment and powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes, watermelon, and pink grapefruit, studied for cancer prevention.
Read moreImmuneLymphatic System
A network of tissues and organs that helps rid the body of toxins and waste, playing a key role in immune defense.
Read moreM
Macronutrient
One of the three main nutrients the body needs in large amounts: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
Read moreNutritionMacronutrients
The three main categories of nutrients the body needs in large amounts: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
Read moreNutritionMagnesium
An essential mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and bone development.
Read moreTherapyMassage Therapy
Manual manipulation of soft body tissues to relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote relaxation and healing.
Read moreMental HealthMelatonin
A hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and is also available as a supplement for sleep support.
Read moreWomen's HealthMenopausal Symptoms
Physical and emotional changes during menopause including hot flashes, sleep disruption, and mood changes.
Read moreMetabolicMetabolic Syndrome
A cluster of conditions (high blood pressure, blood sugar, waist circumference, and abnormal cholesterol) increasing disease risk.
Read moreNutritionMetabolism
The sum of all chemical reactions in the body that convert food into energy and building blocks for growth and repair.
Read moreBiochemistryMethylation
A biochemical process essential for DNA repair, detoxification, and neurotransmitter production, influenced by B vitamins and folate.
Read moreGut HealthMicrobiome
The collective genome of all microorganisms living in and on the human body, with the gut microbiome being the most studied.
Read moreVitaminsMicronutrients
Vitamins and minerals needed in small amounts that are essential for normal growth, development, and disease prevention.
Read moreMental HealthMindfulness
The practice of maintaining non-judgmental awareness of the present moment, shown to reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
Read moreFatsMonounsaturated Fat
A type of healthy fat found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts that can improve cholesterol levels and reduce heart disease risk.
Read moreN
Neurotransmitter
Chemical messengers that transmit signals between nerve cells, influencing mood, sleep, appetite, and cognitive function.
Read moreVitaminsNiacin
Vitamin B3, important for energy metabolism and cellular function, found in meat, fish, legumes, and fortified grains.
Read moreBrain HealthNootropic
Substances claimed to enhance cognitive function, including prescription drugs, supplements, and natural compounds like caffeine.
Read moreNutritionNutrient Density
The ratio of beneficial nutrients to calories in a food. Nutrient-dense foods provide more vitamins and minerals per calorie.
Read moreO
Obesity
A complex chronic disease involving excessive body fat that increases the risk of multiple health conditions.
Read moreFatsOmega-3 Fatty Acids
Essential polyunsaturated fats found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts that reduce inflammation and support heart and brain health.
Read moreBone HealthOsteoporosis
A condition causing bones to become weak and brittle, significantly increasing fracture risk, especially in postmenopausal women.
Read moreCellular HealthOxidative Stress
An imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, contributing to cellular damage and chronic disease.
Read moreHormonesOxytocin
The 'bonding hormone' released during physical touch, social interaction, and childbirth, promoting trust and emotional connection.
Read moreP
Pantothenic Acid
Vitamin B5, essential for energy metabolism and the synthesis of coenzyme A, found widely in both plant and animal foods.
Read moreBiochemistryPeptide
Short chains of amino acids that serve as signaling molecules in the body, with various roles in immunity, hormones, and metabolism.
Read moreChemistrypH Balance
The body's acid-base balance, tightly regulated between 7.35-7.45 in blood. Claims about 'alkaline diets' are largely unsupported.
Read morePlantsPhytochemical
Biologically active compounds in plants that may provide health benefits, including carotenoids, flavonoids, and isothiocyanates.
Read morePlantsPhytonutrient
Natural chemical compounds in plants that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Read moreResearchPlacebo Effect
A measurable improvement in health not attributable to an actual treatment, demonstrating the powerful mind-body connection.
Read moreFoot HealthPlantar Fasciitis
Inflammation of the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot, causing heel pain especially with first steps in the morning.
Read moreNutritionPolyphenol
A category of plant compounds with antioxidant properties found in fruits, vegetables, tea, wine, and chocolate.
Read moreFatsPolyunsaturated Fat
Essential fats including omega-3 and omega-6, found in fish, walnuts, and vegetable oils, important for brain and heart function.
Read moreMineralsPotassium
A vital mineral and electrolyte that regulates fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals, found in bananas and potatoes.
Read moreGut HealthPrebiotic
Non-digestible fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria, found in foods like garlic, onions, bananas, and asparagus.
Read moreNutritionProbiotic
Live beneficial microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host.
Read moreHormonesProgesterone
A hormone involved in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and mood regulation, with levels that decline during perimenopause.
Read moreNutritionProtein
A macronutrient made of amino acids, essential for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes, and supporting immune function.
Read moreR
Range of Motion
The full extent of movement possible at a joint, important for functional fitness and injury prevention.
Read moreNutritionRDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance)
The average daily dietary intake level sufficient to meet nutrient requirements for nearly all healthy individuals in a group.
Read moreSleepREM Sleep
Rapid Eye Movement sleep, a stage characterized by vivid dreams, memory consolidation, and emotional processing.
Read moreHeart HealthResting Heart Rate
The number of heartbeats per minute while at complete rest, typically 60-100 BPM in adults, with lower indicating better fitness.
Read moreAntioxidantsResveratrol
A polyphenol found in grapes, red wine, and berries studied for potential cardiovascular and anti-aging benefits.
Read moreVitaminsRiboflavin
Vitamin B2, essential for energy production and cellular function, found in dairy, eggs, lean meats, and leafy greens.
Read moreS
Sarcopenia
Age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, beginning around age 30 and accelerating after 60, counteracted by resistance training.
Read moreFatsSaturated Fat
A type of fat found mainly in animal products and some tropical oils. High intake is associated with increased LDL cholesterol.
Read moreMineralsSelenium
A trace mineral with antioxidant properties important for thyroid function and immune health, found in Brazil nuts and seafood.
Read moreMental HealthSerotonin
A neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness and well-being, with about 95% produced in the gut.
Read moreSleepSleep Apnea
A sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts, reducing sleep quality and increasing cardiovascular risk.
Read moreSleepSleep Architecture
The cyclical pattern of sleep stages (N1, N2, N3, REM) through the night, each serving different restorative functions.
Read moreMineralsSodium
An essential mineral and electrolyte that regulates fluid balance, but excess intake is linked to high blood pressure.
Read moreFiberSoluble Fiber
Fiber that dissolves in water forming a gel-like substance, helping lower cholesterol and regulate blood sugar.
Read moreSupplementsSpirulina
A blue-green algae rich in protein, vitamins, and antioxidants, used as a dietary supplement for nutrient density.
Read moreBiologyStem Cells
Undifferentiated cells with the ability to develop into various cell types, central to regenerative medicine research.
Read moreNutritionSupplement
A product taken to supplement the diet, including vitamins, minerals, herbs, and amino acids, available in various forms.
Read moreT
Taurine
An amino acid found in meat and fish that supports heart function, electrolyte balance, and bile acid conjugation.
Read moreAgingTelomere
Protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with age. Telomere length is associated with biological aging.
Read moreHormonesTestosterone
The primary male sex hormone, also present in females, important for muscle mass, bone density, and reproductive health.
Read moreVitaminsThiamine
Vitamin B1, essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function, found in whole grains, pork, and legumes.
Read moreEndocrineThyroid
A butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones regulating metabolism, energy levels, and body temperature.
Read moreEar HealthTinnitus
The perception of ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in the ears without an external source, affecting quality of life.
Read moreFatsTrans Fat
Artificially created fats that increase LDL cholesterol and heart disease risk, now largely banned from food production.
Read moreLipidsTriglycerides
A type of fat in the blood that stores unused calories. High levels increase the risk of heart disease and pancreatitis.
Read moreNatural RemediesTurmeric
A golden spice containing curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Read moreSpicesTurmeric
A golden spice containing curcumin, widely studied for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Read moreU
V
Vagus Nerve
The longest cranial nerve connecting the brain to major organs, playing a key role in the parasympathetic nervous system and relaxation.
Read moreVitaminsVitamin A
A fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision, immune function, and skin health, found in liver, dairy, and orange vegetables.
Read moreVitaminsVitamin B12
A water-soluble vitamin crucial for nerve function and red blood cell formation, primarily found in animal-sourced foods.
Read moreVitaminsVitamin C
A water-soluble antioxidant vitamin essential for immune function, collagen synthesis, and iron absorption.
Read moreVitaminsVitamin D
The 'sunshine vitamin' essential for calcium absorption, bone health, and immune function, with widespread deficiency globally.
Read moreVitaminsVitamin E
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage, found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.
Read moreVitaminsVitamin K
A fat-soluble vitamin essential for blood clotting and bone metabolism, found in leafy greens and fermented foods.
Read moreFitnessVO2 Max
The maximum rate of oxygen consumption during exercise, considered the gold standard measure of cardiovascular fitness.
Read moreW
Whey Protein
A complete protein derived from milk during cheese production, popular as a supplement for muscle building and recovery.
Read moreNutritionWhole Grains
Grains that contain all three parts of the kernel (bran, germ, endosperm), providing more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than refined grains.
Read more