Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology

Cognitive dissonance is a psychological theory that refers to the mental discomfort or tension that arises when an individual holds two or more contradictory beliefs, values, or attitudes, especially when…

Cognitive distortions are irrational, biased, or exaggerated thought patterns that negatively influence perception, decision-making, and emotions. These automatic, often unconscious, thinking errors can reinforce maladaptive behaviors, such as emotional eating…

One of the mini-theories that are part of the Self-determination theory. It explains the effects of extrinsic factors on intrinsic motivation. Its basic premise is that if an individual perceives…

Cognitive performance is how sharply we focus, remember, and make decisions on an ordinary day — often while tired, stressed, or short on time. Nutritional psychology looks at both directions: how what we eat shapes these abilities, and how these abilities shape what we eat.

Cognitive Performance meaning the measurable efficiency of mental processes attention, memory, executive function, processing speed as shaped by diet, nutrient status, and eating behaviors. What makes it nutritional psychology is treating…

Cognitive reserve is the brain’s capacity to resist the effects of aging or neurological damage by efficiently reorganizing its neural networks or using alternative neural networks to achieve desired cognitive…

Cognitive resilience is the brain's ability to adapt and recover from cognitive challenges, stress, or aging while maintaining normal cognitive function. It reflects the capacity to withstand cognitive decline or…

In microbiology, a Colony-Forming Unit (CFU) determines the concentration of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes in a sample.

The COM-B Model explains behavior through the interaction of capability, opportunity, and motivation. In nutritional psychology, it helps identify the personal, social, and environmental factors that shape eating behavior and dietary change.

Comfort foods are familiar, emotionally meaningful foods chosen for the reassurance or pleasure they evoke, especially during stress or distress. Their appeal reflects psychological and sensory associations rather than nutritional value alone.