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Hyperandrogenism
A condition in which there is an excess of androgens (male sex hormones such as testosterone) in females. It can cause symptoms like excess hair growth, acne, scalp hair thinning,…
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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.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is the primary neuroendocrine system in the human body that regulates stress response mechanisms (DeMorrow, 2018). It represents the interaction of the hypothalamus with the pituitary…
Hypothalamus
The hypothalamus is a region deep within the brain that serves as the body's control center for maintaining homeostasis. It regulates various physiological processes, including appetite and energy balance, making…
Identity Lag
A psychonutritional phenomenon describing the temporal gap between a person’s changing body, metabolic state, and eating patterns (for example, rapid weight loss or appetite suppression with GLP‑1 medications) and their…
Immediate Gratification
Immediate gratification refers to the desire for and pursuit of instant pleasure or satisfaction without considering or prioritizing long-term consequences. It involves seeking immediate rewards or benefits rather than delaying…
Immune cells
Immune cells are the active components of the immune system and belong to the white blood cell (WBC) category. They provide immunity to the host by protecting them from bacterial…
Immune system
The immune system is the complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against foreign invaders such as pathogens and maintain overall health.
In Vitro Study
An in vitro study (from the Latin for "in glass") is a scientific experiment or controlled research procedure conducted outside a living organism, using isolated biological components—such as cells, tissues,…
Incentive Salience
Incentive salience is a motivational property assigned by the brain to a stimulus, making it attract attention of the individual and and 'wanted'. According to Incentive Salience Theory of Addiction,…
Incentive Sensitization
Incentive Sensitization is a theory proposing that repeated exposure to a rewarding stimulus—such as drugs or palatable food—leads to enhanced sensitivity of the brain’s dopaminergic systems to associated cues. This…
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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
