Genetics
Specific, inherited DNA of an organism, which influences what they become, although environment also plays a key role in the expression of an organism's genetic code.
Metabolic
Pertaining to the chemical reactions and physiological processes necessary to ensure life.
Energy Balance
Relationship between all sources of energy intake and energy output; an organism is said to be in energy balance when energy flow into the body and out of the body is equal; often evidenced by stable body weight.
Nutrient Density
Foods that provide substantial amounts of nutrients with only the necessary calories.
Health
State of physical well-being and optimum function that should be assessed through medical tests, including blood assessments, cardiovascular tests, and other screening modalities.
Outcome-Based
Use of specific, measureable outcomes and evidence to make decisions, rather than nebulous or dogmatic definitions of what is "good" or "correct".
Laws Of Thermodynamics
Principles that govern energy exchange, including heat exchange and the performance of work.
Positive Energy Balance
When energy flow into the body exceeds energy flow out of the body, often evidenced by increasing body weight.
Negative Energy Balance
When energy flow out of the body exceeds energy flow into the body, often evidenced by decreasing body weight.
Insulin Resistance
Condition in which normal amounts of the hormone insulin are inadequate to produce a normal response from fat, muscle and liver cells.
Calorie Density
Energy provided per unit of food, high caloric density foods provide many calories in small portions while low caloric density foods provide fewer calories in a large portion.
Social Support
Network of individuals that provide's positive feedback, constructive criticism, and encouragement for one's lifestyle choices.
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT)
Nutritional advice intended to treat a variety of conditions and illnesses, the provision of which is the exclusive domain of trained and licensed nutrition professionals.
Cross-Referral System
System in which two health and fitness professionals (such as a physician or personal trainer) actively recommend each other's complimentary services to their own clients and patients.