Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology

Phagocytes are a group of cells, including neutrophils and macrophages, that can engulf and digest foreign particles, such as bacteria and debris. They are essential components of the innate immune…

Phagocytosis is a process in which cells, typically specialized immune cells like macrophages and neutrophils, engulf and digest foreign particles, such as bacteria or cellular debris. This mechanism is crucial…

Pharmacotherapy is the treatment of a health or mental health condition using medications. In mental healthcare, pharmacotherapy may involve medicines prescribed to manage symptoms or underlying processes associated with conditions such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.

A phylum is a major category for classifying living organisms based on shared characteristics and evolutionary relationships. It helps organize diverse species into broad groups.

Phytochemicals are bioactive, non-nutrient compounds naturally produced by plants as part of their secondary metabolism, primarily serving protective functions for the plant such as defense against pathogens, ultraviolet radiation, and…

Pica is a feeding and eating disorder defined in DSM-5-TR by the persistent eating of one or more non-nutritive, non-food substances over a period of at least one month. Presentations are conventionally named for the ingested substance.

Plant-based diets emphasize foods derived from plants and range from vegan and vegetarian patterns to Mediterranean-style eating. Their healthfulness depends on overall diet quality, nutrient adequacy, and an emphasis on whole or minimally processed foods.

A transient emotional state resulting from the satisfaction of a desire or a craving (as opposed to happiness, which refers to a lasting emotional state of contentment) (Gros, 2020).

A common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, marked by irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and polycystic-appearing ovaries. It is often associated with insulin resistance, metabolic disturbances, and…

Polyphenols are naturally occurring plant compounds found in foods and beverages such as fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, cocoa, nuts, and legumes. They are studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and their potential effects on brain function, cognition, mood, and mental health.