Author: Glossary
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GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)
An inhibitory neurotransmitter that reduces stress, induces calm, and promotes sleep. The major neurotransmitter in the brain implicated in several psychiatric and neurological conditions, most notably Huntington’s disease. An amino acid neurotransmitter. A metabolite produced when glutamic acid is decarboxylated. It is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that quiets excited neurons. Low levels of GABA are associated…
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Endorphins
The “feel-good” chemicals the brain manufactures that can override pain and put you in a better mood. Opioid peptides secreted in the brain that have a painrelieving effect similar to that of morphine. These peptides may be released in response to prolonged exercise, such as the “runner’s high”experienced by long-distance runners. A naturally produced chemical…
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Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
An omega-3 fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties. Along-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (C20:5 ω3). Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is a long-chain (20 carbons) omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid found primarily in fish oil. EPA is highly unsaturated with five double bonds. The potential role of EPA in athletic performance is described in the entry on omega-3 fatty acids.…
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Down-regulate
To induce a reduction in the level of gene expression through genetic means.
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Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
An omega-3 fatty acid that is a primary structural component of the brain. Along-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (C22:6 ω3). Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a long-chain (22 carbons) omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid found primarily in fish oil. DHA is highly unsaturated with six double bonds. The potential role of DHA in athletic performance is described in…
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Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)
A substance that can protect your brain cells, promote healthy new neuron growth, and enhance memory. A protein that in humans is encoded by the BDNF gene. In the brain, BDNF is active in the hippocampus, cerebral cortex, and basal forebrain—areas vital to learning, memory, and higher thinking. Various studies have shown possible links between…
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Blue zones
A term coined by Dan Buettner that refers to the five areas in the world that boast the longest-living populations (on average).
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Axons
Branchlike structures on one end of a neuron responsible for taking information away from the cell body. The fiber-like extension of a neuron through which the cell sends information to target cells. The long-nerve cell process that conducts impulses from the cell body. A nerve fiber that carries nerve impulses away from the cell body…
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Autoimmune disorder
A destructive condition where a person’s immune system attacks its own tissue. Occurs when the body creates antibodies against itself.
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Antinutrients
Compounds in foods that can interfere with the absorption of good nutrients and minerals.