Glossary
Looking for more information? Browse our glossary for health and nutrition related words and terms to keep you in the know!
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- A1C
- Description:
(Also called glycosylated haemoglobin). A test that measures your average blood glucose levels to show how well levels are being managed over a long-term period. People with diabetes should have their A1C measured once every three months. - Acid reflux
- Description:
A common condition in which acid in the stomach rises up into the esophagus. - Acupuncture
- Description:
An originally Chinese practice of inserting fine needles through the skin at specific points to cure disease or relieve pain. - Added salt
- Description:
Refers to salt added during cooking or after preparation "at the table" - Amino acid
- Description:
These are the building blocks used to make proteins. Different combinations of amino acids make up different types of proteins. Protein is a nutrient found in food, and also helps to form the muscles in our body. - Anaphylaxis
- Description:
A severe food allergy reaction that can be life-threatening. The most common foods that may trigger anaphylaxis are peanuts, tree nuts, seafood, egg, and milk products. Other common triggers are insect stings, medicine, latex or exercise. - Anemia
- Description:
This is a condition in which a person has less than the normal number of red blood cells or less than the normal quantity of hemoglobin in the blood. The oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood is decreased. - Anorexia Nervosa
- Description:
An eating disorder identified by an "obsession" for thinness. Characteristic features include drastic weight loss resulting from dieting and/or intense exercise, poor body image, a drive for thinness and fear of weight gain - Antacid
- Description:
An over-the counter medicine that helps reduce stomach acid and coat the stomach. Often used for relief of heartburn pain. - Antioxidants
- Description:
Nutrients that prevent or slow the breakdown of another substance by oxygen. Beta-carotene (a vitamin A precursor), vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium have been found to act as antioxidants. - Autoimmune disease/disorder
- Description:
A condition that results when the body attacks and destroys its own healthy cells and tissues. Some examples of autoimmune disorders are type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, lupus and celiac disease.