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Fullness hormones
Fullness hormones induce a feeling of satiety and reduce the desire to eat. Cholecystokinin (CCK) and leptin are examples of fullness hormones.
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Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology
Explore clear, research-informed definitions of key concepts connecting nutrition, mental health, behavior, and psychological well-being.
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About the ENP
A trusted guide to nutritional psychology terminology
Nutritional psychology examines how dietary patterns, nutrients, food-related behaviors, and psychological factors interact with mental health and well-being. Launched by the Center for Nutritional Psychology in 2024, the Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology defines the terms, mechanisms, processes, and research areas shaping this growing field.
Created for students, educators, researchers, healthcare professionals, and curious readers, the ENP includes hundreds of clear, research-informed entries. Content is written and regularly updated by contributors across relevant scientific disciplines, with new entries and major revisions reviewed by the CNP Encyclopedia Editorial Board before publication.
The encyclopedia helps readers understand terminology and foundational concepts. For deeper exploration of the studies behind those concepts, visit the Nutritional Psychology Research Library .
Encyclopedia entries
Select a term to read its definition and supporting context.
GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)
GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that regulates brain activity by reducing neuronal excitability. It counterbalances the effects of excitatory neurotransmitters, contributing to the overall balance of neural signaling. GABA is…
Gastric Emptying
Gastric emptying is the process by which the stomach releases its contents into the small intestine at a rate regulated by meal composition, hormonal and neural signaling, and psychological state. Its pace shapes satiety, glycemic response, appetite hormone release, and gut-brain signals relevant to mood and eating beh
Gastrointestinal Tract (GIT)
The gastrointestinal tract (GIT), also known as the gut, digestive tract, or alimentary canal, is a long, twisted hollow tube that extends from the mouth to the anus and is…
GBA-microbiota crosstalk
The GBA-microbiota crosstalk is a bidirectional communication system between the gut, microbiota, and brain. This communication occurs physically or biochemically and interlinks the gut with the cognitive and emotional centers…
Genes
Genes are the instruction manuals of living organisms made up of intricate DNA sequences; their function is to direct the production of specific proteins and enzymes required for survival.
Germ-Free (GF) Animal Model
The germ-free (GF) animal model refers to the study of animals raised in a sterile environment free of microorganisms (i.e., beneficial and pathogenic microbes) for research purposes (Bhattarai & Kashyap,…
Ghrelin
Ghrelin is often referred to as the "hunger hormone." It is produced by the stomach and stimulates appetite, signaling to the brain that it's time to eat (Pradhan et al.,…
Glands
A gland is a group of cells whose function is to produce and secrete a specific substance (such as hormones, digestive juices, tears, saliva, and milk) either directly into the…
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs)
GLP-1 medications (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are prescription drugs originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes that work by influencing appetite regulation, blood sugar control, and gastrointestinal function. Individuals with…
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Academic oversight
Editorial Board
Meet the editors and subject specialists supporting the Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology.
Executive and Associate Editors
Co-Principal Editors
Ephi Morphew-Lu
The Center for Nutritional Psychology
Shereen Behairy
The Center for Nutritional Psychology
Associate Editors
Nabila Pervaiz
The Center for Nutritional Psychology
Technical Support
Tahir Yasin
The Center for Nutritional Psychology
Subject Editors
Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Child Psychology
Dr. Vishruti Patel, PsyD
Clinical Psychology
Psychology
Dr. Vladimir Hedrih, PhD
University of Niš, Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Psychology
Nutritional Immunology
Dr. Emilia Vassiloupoulou, PhD, BSc
Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences, International Hellenic University, 57400 Thessaloniki, Greece and Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy
Nutrition and Dietetics
Eileen Santana RD, CDN
The Center for Nutritional Psychology
