Hormones and Metabolism
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Nutrition for Hormonal Balance course at LearnUNI. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Hormones and Metabolism Glossary #
Hormones and Metabolism Glossary
Adiponectin #
Adiponectin is a hormone produced by fat cells that plays a role in regulating glucose levels and fatty acid breakdown. Higher levels of adiponectin are associated with improved insulin sensitivity and lower risk of metabolic disorders.
Adrenal Glands #
The adrenal glands are small glands located on top of each kidney that produce hormones such as cortisol, adrenaline, and aldosterone. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, stress response, and fluid balance.
Aldosterone #
Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate blood pressure by controlling the balance of sodium and potassium in the body. It plays a key role in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance.
AMPK (AMP #
activated protein kinase): AMPK is an enzyme that plays a central role in regulating cellular energy metabolism. It is activated in response to low energy levels (high AMP/ATP ratio) and helps to increase energy production through processes like glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation.
Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) #
Basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the amount of energy expended by the body at rest to maintain basic physiological functions such as breathing, circulation, and cell repair. BMR accounts for the majority of daily energy expenditure.
Blood Sugar #
Blood sugar refers to the concentration of glucose in the bloodstream. It is tightly regulated by hormones like insulin and glucagon to ensure that cells have a constant supply of energy. Abnormal blood sugar levels can lead to metabolic disorders like diabetes.
Body Mass Index (BMI) #
Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on an individual's height and weight. It is commonly used to classify individuals as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. While BMI is a useful screening tool, it does not account for factors like muscle mass or body composition.
Calorie #
A calorie is a unit of energy used to quantify the energy content of food and the energy expenditure of the body. One calorie is defined as the amount of energy required to raise the temperature of one gram of water by one degree Celsius. In nutrition, kilocalories (kcal) are typically used to describe the energy content of food.
Carbohydrates #
Carbohydrates are macronutrients that serve as the body's primary source of energy. They are broken down into glucose, which is used by cells for fuel. Carbohydrates can be classified as simple (sugars) or complex (starches and fiber).
Catabolism #
Catabolism is the process of breaking down complex molecules into simpler ones to release energy. It involves the breakdown of macronutrients like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to produce ATP, the body's main energy currency.
Cholecystokinin (CCK) #
Cholecystokinin is a hormone produced by the small intestine in response to the presence of fat and protein in the digestive tract. It stimulates the release of bile from the gallbladder and pancreatic enzymes to aid in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Cholesterol #
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell of the body. It is essential for the production of hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids. Cholesterol can be synthesized by the body or obtained from dietary sources.
Complex Carbohydrates #
Complex carbohydrates are polysaccharides composed of long chains of sugar molecules. They are found in foods like whole grains, legumes, and vegetables and provide a steady source of energy due to their slower digestion and absorption compared to simple carbohydrates.
Cortisol #
Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It plays a role in regulating metabolism, immune function, and the body's response to stress. Chronic elevation of cortisol levels can lead to metabolic imbalances.
Diabetes #
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels due to insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 (autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells) and type 2 (insulin resistance).
Digestion #
Digestion is the process of breaking down food into smaller molecules that can be absorbed by the body. It involves mechanical and chemical processes in the mouth, stomach, and intestines to convert nutrients into forms that can be utilized by cells.
Endocrine System #
The endocrine system is a network of glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate various physiological processes. Hormones produced by the endocrine system play a key role in metabolism, growth, reproduction, and stress response.
Energy Balance #
Energy balance refers to the relationship between energy intake (calories consumed) and energy expenditure (calories burned). A positive energy balance leads to weight gain, while a negative energy balance results in weight loss.
Estrogen #
Estrogen is a group of hormones primarily produced by the ovaries in females. It plays a key role in the development of secondary sexual characteristics, menstrual cycle regulation, and bone health. Estrogen levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle.
Fast Metabolism #
Fast metabolism refers to a high basal metabolic rate (BMR) that results in increased energy expenditure and efficient calorie burning. Factors like genetics, muscle mass, and physical activity can influence metabolic rate.
Fatty Acids #
Fatty acids are the building blocks of fats (lipids) that serve as a concentrated source of energy for the body. They can be classified as saturated, monounsaturated, or polyunsaturated based on their chemical structure.
Fructose #
Fructose is a simple sugar found in fruits, honey, and high-fructose corn syrup. It is metabolized in the liver and can contribute to insulin resistance, fatty liver disease, and metabolic syndrome when consumed in excess.
Ghrelin #
Ghrelin is a hormone produced by the stomach that stimulates appetite and promotes food intake. It plays a role in regulating hunger signals and energy balance by signaling the brain to increase food consumption.
Glucagon #
Glucagon is a hormone produced by the pancreas that acts opposite to insulin to increase blood glucose levels. It stimulates the breakdown of glycogen in the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream in response to low blood sugar levels.
Glucose #
Glucose is a simple sugar that serves as the primary source of energy for cells. It is derived from the breakdown of carbohydrates in the diet and is transported through the bloodstream to fuel cellular processes.
Glucose Metabolism #
Glucose metabolism refers to the biochemical processes involved in the uptake, utilization, and storage of glucose in the body. It includes glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, glycogen synthesis, and glycogenolysis to maintain blood glucose homeostasis.
Glycemic Index (GI) #
The glycemic index (GI) is a scale that ranks carbohydrate-containing foods based on their effect on blood sugar levels. Foods with a high GI cause a rapid spike in blood glucose, while low-GI foods lead to a slower, more sustained release of glucose.
Glycogen #
Glycogen is a complex carbohydrate stored in the liver and muscles as a reserve source of glucose. It can be broken down into glucose to provide energy during periods of fasting or physical activity.
Insulin #
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that plays a central role in regulating blood sugar levels. It promotes the uptake of glucose by cells for energy production and storage, thereby lowering blood glucose levels.
Insulin Resistance #
Insulin resistance is a condition in which cells become less responsive to the effects of insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. It is a key feature of metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Ketones #
Ketones are byproducts of fatty acid metabolism that serve as an alternative energy source when glucose availability is limited. They are produced in the liver during periods of fasting, low carbohydrate intake, or prolonged exercise.
Leptin #
Leptin is a hormone produced by fat cells that regulates energy balance and appetite by signaling the brain to reduce food intake and increase energy expenditure. Leptin levels are influenced by body fat mass and play a role in long-term weight regulation.
Lipids #
Lipids are a diverse group of molecules that include fats, oils, cholesterol, and phospholipids. They serve as a concentrated source of energy, structural components of cell membranes, and precursors for hormone synthesis.
Macronutrients #
Macronutrients are nutrients required by the body in large amounts to support growth, metabolism, and overall health. They include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which provide energy and essential building blocks for cellular functions.
Malabsorption #
Malabsorption is a condition characterized by impaired absorption of nutrients in the gastrointestinal tract. It can result from disorders like celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or pancreatic insufficiency, leading to nutrient deficiencies and metabolic imbalances.
Metabolic Rate #
Metabolic rate refers to the rate at which the body expends energy to maintain basic physiological functions. Factors like age, gender, body composition, and physical activity level influence metabolic rate and energy expenditure.
Metabolic Syndrome #
Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of risk factors including central obesity, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, abnormal lipid levels, and insulin resistance. It increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.
Metabolism #
Metabolism is the sum of all chemical processes that occur in living organisms to maintain life. It involves the conversion of nutrients into energy, the synthesis of molecules for growth and repair, and the elimination of waste products.
Neuropeptide Y (NPY) #
Neuropeptide Y is a neurotransmitter and hormone produced in the brain that stimulates appetite and food intake. It plays a role in regulating feeding behavior, energy balance, and stress response.
Obesity #
Obesity is a condition characterized by excess body fat accumulation that increases the risk of developing metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. It is influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
Omega #
3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential polyunsaturated fats that have anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits. They are found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts and play a role in brain function, heart health, and immune function.
Palmitic Acid #
Palmitic acid is a saturated fatty acid found in animal fats and palm oil. Excessive consumption of palmitic acid has been linked to insulin resistance, inflammation, and cardiovascular disease, making it a less desirable fat in the diet.
Peptide Hormones #
Peptide hormones are a class of hormones made up of short chains of amino acids that act as chemical messengers in the body. Examples include insulin, glucagon, and growth hormone, which regulate various physiological processes like metabolism and growth.
Phytoestrogens #
Phytoestrogens are plant-derived compounds that have estrogen-like effects in the body. They can bind to estrogen receptors and modulate hormone signaling, potentially influencing hormone balance and health outcomes.
Probiotics #
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that promote gut health and support digestion. They help maintain a healthy balance of intestinal microflora, improve nutrient absorption, and enhance immune function. Probiotics can be found in fermented foods and supplements.
Protein #
Protein is a macronutrient composed of amino acids that serve as building blocks for tissues, enzymes, and hormones. It plays a crucial role in muscle growth, repair, and immune function. Dietary protein sources include meat, fish, dairy, legumes, and nuts.
Resistant Starch #
Resistant starch is a type of dietary fiber that resists digestion in the small intestine and ferments in the colon. It has prebiotic effects, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improving gut health. Resistant starch is found in foods like legumes, whole grains, and green bananas.
Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) #
Resting metabolic rate (RMR) is the amount of energy expended by the body at rest to maintain essential functions like breathing, circulation, and cell repair. RMR accounts for the majority of daily energy expenditure and varies based on factors like age, gender, and body composition.
Saturated Fats #
Saturated fats are fats that consist of single-bonded fatty acids and are solid at room temperature. They are found in animal products like meat and dairy, as well as tropical oils like coconut and palm oil. High intake of saturated fats is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Thermogenesis #
Thermogenesis is the process of heat production in the body that contributes to energy expenditure and metabolic rate. It can be stimulated by factors like cold exposure, physical activity, and certain foods like spicy peppers or caffeine.
Thyroid Gland #
The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland located in the neck that produces thyroid hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). These hormones play a key role in regulating metabolism, growth, and energy expenditure.
Triglycerides #
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat found in the body and in the diet. They consist of three fatty acids attached to a glycerol molecule and serve as a storage form of energy. Elevated triglyceride levels are a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Unsaturated Fats #
Unsaturated fats are fats that contain one or more double bonds in their fatty acid chains and are liquid at room temperature. They are found in plant-based oils like olive, avocado, and flaxseed oil and have heart-healthy benefits when consumed in moderation.
Vitamin D #
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in calcium absorption, bone health, and immune function. It can be synthesized by the skin in response to sunlight exposure or obtained from dietary sources like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and supplements.
Weight Loss Plateau #
A weight loss plateau is a period during a weight loss journey when progress stalls despite continued efforts to reduce calorie intake and increase physical activity. Plateaus can occur due to factors like metabolic adaptation, decreased energy expenditure, or changes in body composition.
Whole Grains #
Whole grains are grains that contain the entire grain kernel, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients and provide sustained energy due to their slower digestion and absorption compared to refined grains.