Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology

Table of Contents

A B C D E F G H I K L M N O P R S T U V W

Habit

Habit is learned behavior acquired through repetition, characterized by automatic and routine actions. These behaviors become ingrained in daily life, shaping individuals’ routines and responses to specific cues or contexts.

Habit Formation

Habit formation is the process by which behaviors become automatic through consistent repetition. It involves establishing a routine or pattern that, over time, becomes ingrained in one’s daily life.

Habit Loop

The habit loop is a psychological concept that describes the cyclical process through which individuals form and reinforce habits. It consists of three main components: cue (the trigger), routine (the actual behavior), and reward (the outcome).

Habitual Intake

Habitual intake refers to the regular and continuous intake of a food or substance instead of occasional intake. ‘Occasional’ intake is defined as having dessert 1-3 times per week, for example (as opposed to almost every day).

Health Literacy

Health literacy refers to the ability of individuals to obtain, understand, and apply health information to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. It encompasses skills such as reading, writing, numeracy, and critical thinking in the context of health-related information and services.

Hedonic

Relating to or considered in terms of pleasant (or unpleasant) sensations.

Hedonic Hunger

Hedonic hunger refers to a strong desire or preoccupation with consuming food for the enjoyment and pleasure it brings rather than responding to actual physical hunger cues. It involves craving food based on the pleasurable eating experience rather than fulfilling a genuine nutritional need.

Helper T-Cells

Helper T-cells are a subset of T-cells that assist in coordinating and regulating immune responses. They release signaling molecules to facilitate the activation of other immune cells, including B-cells and cytotoxic T-cells.

Herbal Nootropics

Herbal nootropics refer to natural substances derived from plants that are believed to enhance cognitive function, memory, and overall brain health. Unlike synthetic nootropics, these compounds are sourced from traditional medicine systems and are valued for their potential cognitive benefits.

High-density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is considered beneficial because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease. It is often referred to as “good cholesterol”.

Editorial Board

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

Psychology: Vladimir Hedrih
University of Niš, Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Psychology
Nutrition and Dietetics: Eileen Santana
The Center for Nutritional Psychology
Nutritional Immunology: Emilia Vassiloupolou
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