Ambient Odor
An odor one is not consciously aware of.
Explore clear, research-informed definitions of key concepts connecting nutrition, mental health, behavior, and psychological well-being.
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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 .
Select a term to read its definition and supporting context.
An odor one is not consciously aware of.
Amino acids are the basic building blocks of proteins, consisting of a central carbon atom bonded to an amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl group (-COOH), and a unique side chain…
The amygdala is a small, almond-shaped region deep within the brain that plays a central role in processing emotions, particularly fear and anxiety. It also contributes to assessing the emotional…
Anhedonia is the inability to experience pleasure from usually pleasurable situations, and it is a primary symptom of depression, schizophrenia, and other mental disorders (Sharma et al., 2004).
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by self-imposed restriction of energy intake, leading to a significantly low body weight. Individuals with anorexia have an intense fear of gaining weight…
The anorexigenic peptides are derived from the Greek words ἀν- (an-, "without") and ὄρεξις (órexis, "appetite"), meaning "without appetite." They are primarily produced in the stomach to suppress appetite and…
The term "anorexigenic" is derived from the Greek words ἀν- (an-, "without") and ὄρεξις (órexis, "appetite"), meaning "without appetite" and referring to "appetite-suppressing" hormones produced to suppress appetite and reduce…
The absence or failure of ovulation during a menstrual cycle resulting in the lack of egg release from the ovaries. It can result from hormonal imbalances, stress, excessive exercise, certain…
A region of the brain located in the medial prefrontal cortex, the ACC plays a key role in detecting cognitive conflict and errors, regulating emotional responses, monitoring ongoing performance, and…
Antibiotic-induced microbiota depletion (AIMD) refers to the administration of one or more antibiotics that deplete the microbiota and disrupt the microbial balance, including richness and diversity. This can harm host…
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