Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology

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…

An anti-inflammatory diet emphasizes vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, extra-virgin olive oil, fatty fish, and herbs while limiting ultra-processed foods, refined carbohydrates, added sugars, and processed meats — with Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND patterns scoring as anti-inflammatory. In nutritional ps

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…

Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are proteins produced by B-cells in response to the presence of antigens. They bind to specific antigens, marking them for destruction by other immune cells.

An antidepressant is a class of medication primarily prescribed to treat clinical depression, anxiety disorders, and certain chronic pain conditions by balancing neurotransmitters—such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine—in the brain…

Antigens are molecules or molecular structures, often found on the surface of pathogens, that trigger an immune response. They stimulate the production of antibodies or the activation of immune cells.

Antimicrobial peptides are small, naturally occurring peptides produced by immune cells and epithelial cells to inhibit or ward off pathogens (harmful invading microorganisms) such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi (Bahar…

Antioxidants are compounds that help protect cells from oxidative damage by counteracting reactive oxygen species and other reactive molecules. Dietary antioxidants include nutrients and bioactive compounds found in foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, tea, and other plant foods.

Anxiety is an emotional and psychological state characterized by excessive worry, fear, apprehension, or nervousness about perceived or anticipated threats. While occasional anxiety is a normal response to stress, persistent or excessive anxiety can interfere with daily functioning and emotional well-being.

Appetite is the desire or motivation to eat and is influenced by interacting physiological, psychological, and environmental factors. It is regulated through signals involving the brain, gastrointestinal tract, adipose tissue, and hormones such as ghrelin, leptin, insulin, and peptide YY.