Food Science Glossary
We promise "No Jargon" in our articles, but the science still matters. Use this glossary to understand the exact definitions of nutritional terms.
A
Amino Acids
The building blocks of proteins. There are 20 different amino acids, 9 of which are "essential," meaning your body cannot make them and they must come from food.
Antioxidants
Compounds that protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Commonly found in colorful fruits and vegetables.
B
Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)
The number of calories your body burns at rest to maintain basic life functions like breathing and circulation.
Beta-Glucan
A type of soluble fiber found strongly in oats and barley that helps lower cholesterol and improve blood sugar control.
C
Complex Carbohydrates
Carbs made of long chains of sugar molecules that take longer to digest, providing a slow, steady release of energy.
Cortisol
Often called the "stress hormone." It affects metabolism, reduces inflammation, and regulates the sleep-wake cycle.
D
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
An essential Omega-3 fatty acid crucial for brain health and cognitive function, primarily found in fatty fish.
E
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)
An essential Omega-3 fatty acid that helps reduce cellular inflammation, primarily found in fatty fish.
G
Glycemic Index (GI)
A system that ranks foods on a scale from 1 to 100 based on how quickly they raise blood sugar levels.
Gut Microbiome
The trillions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi living in your digestive tract that influence digestion, immunity, and even mood.
I
Insulin
A hormone produced by the pancreas that allows your body to use glucose (sugar) from carbohydrates for energy.
M
Macronutrients
The three main categories of nutrients you eat the most of and provide energy: Proteins, Carbohydrates, and Fats.
Micronutrients
Vitamins and minerals needed by the body in very small amounts to produce enzymes, hormones, and maintain health.
Monounsaturated Fats
Healthy fats found in olive oil, avocados, and certain nuts that can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
O
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Essential polyunsaturated fats that the body cannot produce. They are highly anti-inflammatory.
P
Prebiotics
Types of dietary fiber that feed the friendly bacteria in your gut microbiome.
Probiotics
Live beneficial bacteria found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi.
S
Satiety
The feeling of fullness and loss of appetite that occurs after eating.
Simple Carbohydrates
Sugars that are quickly digested and absorbed, causing rapid spikes in blood glucose and energy.
Soluble Fiber
Fiber that dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance, slowing digestion and helping lower cholesterol.