Glossary of weight loss

Glossary of weight loss terms

• 1-800-GET-THIN A weight loss company that offers lap band surgery.
• 24-hour diet recall A method of documenting all food and drinks consumed in a 24-hour period.
• Activated charcoal cleanse A diet or supplement that involves consuming activated charcoal
• Activated charcoal cleanse A type of cleanse that involves consuming activated charcoal to remove toxins from the body.
• Added sugars Glossary of weight loss — Sugars that are added during the processing of foods (such as sucrose or dextrose), foods packaged as sweeteners (such as table sugar), sugars from syrups and honey, and sugars from concentrated fruit or vegetable juices. They do not include naturally occurring sugars that are found in milk, fruits, and vegetables.
• AdvoCare A multi-level marketing company that sells weight loss and nutrition products.
• Agrifood systems A term used to describe the processes involved in the production, processing, and distribution of food.
• All-cause mortality Glossary of weight loss — The total number of deaths from any or all causes during a specific time period. This does not include cause-specific mortality (i.e., total number of deaths from a specific disease such as cardiovascular disease or cancer).
• Along Came Daffy A 1947 American animated short film produced by Warner Bros. Cartoons.
• Ambronite A meal replacement drink made from natural ingredients.
• Angus Barbieri's fast A fasting regimen lasting for a period of 382 days in 1965, by a Scottish man named Angus Barbieri.
• Anorexia nervosa An eating disorder characterized by low body weight, fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image.
• Antiobesity drugs Medications that are used to treat obesity by reducing appetite or increasing metabolism.
• Arachnophagy The consumption of spiders as food.
• Aspiration therapy A type of therapy used to treat obesity by removing food from the stomach through a tube.
• Atkins diet A low-carbohydrate diet that restricts the intake of carbohydrates and encourages the consumption of protein and fat.
• Atypical anorexia nervosa A subtype of anorexia nervosa characterized by binge eating, overeating, and a fear of weight gain.
• BRAT diet A diet consisting of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast that is often recommended for people with upset stomachs or diarrhea.
• Bariatrics The field of medicine that deals with the causes, prevention, and treatment of obesity.
• Beverly Hills Diet A fad diet that involves eating only fruits for the first 10 days and then gradually adding other foods.
• Bland diet A type of diet that includes simple, easily digestible foods and avoids spicy or fatty foods.
• Blood type diet A type of diet that claims to be based on a person's blood type and is said to offer optimal health benefits for that type.
• Body mass index (BMI) Glossary of weight loss — A measure defining weight in kilograms (kg) divided by height in meters (m) squared. BMI is an indicator of deficient or excess body tissue, both fat and muscle. BMI status categories for individuals ages 2 years and older include underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese. (Normal weight is often referred to as “healthy” weight.) Overweight and obese describe ranges of weight that are greater than what is considered healthy for a given height, while underweight describes a weight that is lower than what is considered healthy. Because children and adolescents are growing, their BMI is plotted on growth charts for sex and age. The percentile indicates the relative position of the child's BMI among children of the same sex and age. This is generally referred to as a BMI percentile or zscore.
• CRAM diet A high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet that is designed to promote weight loss and improve health.
• CRON-diet A type of diet that is based on circadian rhythms and is designed to promote weight loss and improve health.
• Caloric deficit A state where the number of calories consumed is less than the number of calories burned, leading to weight loss.
• Calorie restriction Limiting the number of calories consumed in order to promote weight loss or improve health.
• Calorie Glossary of weight loss — A unit commonly used to measure energy content of foods and beverages as well as energy use (expenditure) by the body. A kilocalorie is equal to the amount of energy (heat) required to raise the temperature of 1 kilogram of water 1 degree centigrade. Energy is required to sustain the body’s various functions, including metabolic processes and physical activity.
• Carbohydrates Glossary of weight loss — One type of macronutrient. Carbohydrates include sugars, starches, and fibers:
• Cardiac diet A type of diet that is low in salt, fat, and cholesterol and is designed to improve heart health.
• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) Glossary of weight loss — Heart disease as well as diseases of the blood vessel system (arteries, capillaries, veins) that can lead to heart attack, chest pain (angina), or stroke.
• Cholesterol Glossary of weight loss — A natural sterol present in all animal tissues. Free cholesterol is a component of cell membranes and serves as a precursor for steroid hormones (estrogen, testosterone, aldosterone), and for bile acids. Humans are able to synthesize sufficient cholesterol to meet biologic requirements, and there is no evidence for a dietary requirement for cholesterol.
• Climatarian diet A type of diet that focuses on reducing the carbon footprint of food production and consumption.
• Complementary foods and beverages (CFB) Glossary of weight loss — Foods and beverages (liquids, semisolids, and solids) other than human milk or infant formula provided to an infant or young child to provide nutrients and energy.
• Cookie diet A type of diet that involves eating specially formulated cookies as meal replacements.
• Cotton ball diet A dangerous fad diet in which cotton balls are consumed in an attempt to feel full and lose weight. It can lead to serious health problems and is not recommended.
• Cup equivalent (cup eq) Glossary of weight loss — The amount of a food product that is considered equal to 1 cup from the vegetable, fruit, or milk food group. A cup eq for some foods may differ from a measured cup in volume because: (1) the foods have been concentrated (such as raisins or tomato paste), (2) the foods are airy in their raw form and do not compress well into a cup (such as salad greens), or (3) the foods are measured in a different form (such as cheese).
• DASH diet A diet that emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and low-fat dairy and is designed to lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
• Daniel fast A religious fasting diet based on the Biblical account of the prophet Daniel and involves eating only fruits, vegetables, and water for a specified period of time.
• Diet (nutrition) A person's daily food and drink intake, typically with the aim of maintaining or improving health.
• Diet and obesity The relationship between the food and drink consumed and the development of obesity.
• Diet food advocates Individuals or groups who promote the use of diet foods for weight loss or healthy eating.
• Diet food Food that is specifically marketed as being low in calories, fat, or other nutrients for the purpose of weight loss or healthy eating.
• Diet in diabetes The specific dietary recommendations for people with diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels.
• Diet rewards Non-food rewards earned for achieving diet-related goals, such as exercise or weight loss.
• Diet-to-Go A meal delivery service that provides pre-made, healthy meals for people following a weight loss or healthy eating diet.
• Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) Glossary of weight loss — Nutrient reference values developed by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine that are specific on the basis of age, sex, and life stage and cover more than 40 nutrient substances. The DRIs provide reference values for vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that: 1) indicate daily intake amounts that meet the needs of most healthy people, and 2) set intake levels not to exceed to avoid harm.
• Dietary energy supply The amount of energy that is available from the food and drink consumed.
• Dietary management The process of managing one's diet to maintain or improve health.
• Dietary pattern Glossary of weight loss — The quantities, proportions, variety, or combination of different foods, drinks, and nutrients in diets, and the frequency with which they are habitually consumed.
• Dietary supplement Glossary of weight loss — A product intended to supplement the diet that contains one or more dietary ingredients (including vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, and Scientific Report of the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee 5 other substances) intended to be taken by mouth as a pill, capsule, table, or liquid, and that is labeled on the front panel as being a dietary supplement.
• Dieting The practice of eating in a controlled and restricted manner, usually with the goal of losing weight or improving health.
• Diets A specific type of eating plan or pattern, typically designed to promote weight loss or improve health.
• Eat to Live A book and accompanying diet plan by Dr. Joel Fuhrman that emphasizes a nutrient-dense, plant-based diet for optimal health and weight loss.
• Eaternity A company that provides sustainable, plant-based food options for individuals and organizations.
• Eating occasion Glossary of weight loss — Ingestive event, including a meal, snack or beverage during which any caloric or non-caloric food or beverage is consumed (see Frequency of eating).
• Eatwell plate A visual representation of the balance of food groups recommended for a healthy, balanced diet as promoted by the UK government.
• Elemental diet A type of liquid diet that consists of nutrients in a highly soluble form, typically used for individuals with digestive or absorptive issues.
• Elimination diet A type of diet in which specific foods are removed from the diet for a specified period of time to identify food sensitivities or allergies.
• Essential calories Glossary of weight loss — The energy associated with the foods and beverages ingested to meet nutritional goals through choices that align with the USDA Food Patterns in forms with the least amounts of saturated fat, added sugars, and sodium.
• Exclusive human milk feeding Glossary of weight loss — Feeding human milk alone and not in combination with infant formula and/or complementary foods and beverages (including water), except for medications or vitamin and mineral supplements.
• Fad diet A type of diet that is popular for a short period of time but may not be scientifically proven or nutritionally sound.
• Fad diets See "Fad diet".
• Fasting The voluntary abstention from food and drink for a specified period of time, often for religious or health reasons. Intermittent fasting is a form of fasting where food is restricted for certain periods of time within a 24-hour cycle.
• Fat removal procedures Medical procedures that remove excess fat from the body, such as liposuction.
• Fat substitute A food ingredient that mimics the texture and taste of fat, but has fewer calories and less fat.
• Fat substitutes See "Fat substitute".
• Fats Glossary of weight loss — One type of macronutrient (see Solid fats and Oils).
• Fedon Lindberg A Greek physician who developed a diet and lifestyle plan for optimal health and longevity.
• Feingold diet A type of elimination diet that removes artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives from the diet to address behavioral and health issues.
• Fitness boot camp A type of group exercise class that emphasizes high-intensity interval training and military-style exercises.
• Fluid restriction diet A type of diet in which fluid intake is limited, typically used for individuals with medical conditions affecting fluid balance.
• Food categories Glossary of weight loss — A method of grouping similar foods in their as-consumed forms, for descriptive purposes. 
• Food components of public health concern Glossary of weight loss — Nutrients and other dietary components that are overconsumed or underconsumed (compared to Dietary Reference Intake recommendations and to biological measures of the nutrient when available) and linked in the scientific literature to adverse health outcomes in the general population or in a subpopulation.
• Food environments Glossary of weight loss — Factors and conditions that influence food choices and food availability. These environments include settings such as home, child care (early care and education), school, after-school programs, worksites, food retail stores and restaurants, and other outlets where individuals and families make eating and drinking decisions. The food environment also includes macro-level factors and includes food marketing, food production and distribution systems, agricultural policies, Federal nutrition assistance programs, and economic price structures.
• Food groups Glossary of weight loss — A method of grouping similar foods for descriptive and guidance purposes. Food groups in the USDA Food Pattern are defined as fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and protein foods. Some of these groups are divided into subgroups, such as dark-green vegetables or whole grains, which may have intake goals or limits (for more information, see Appendix
• Food pattern modeling Glossary of weight loss — The process of developing and adjusting daily intake amounts from food categories or groups to meet specific criteria, such as meeting nutrient intake goals, limiting nutrients or other food components, or varying proportions or amounts of specific food categories or groups.
• Food security Glossary of weight loss — A condition in which all people, now and in the future, have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to maintain a healthy and active life.
• Fortification Glossary of weight loss — The deliberate addition of one or more essential nutrients to a food, whether or not it is normally contained in the food. Fortification may be used to prevent or correct a demonstrated deficiency in the population or specific population groups; restore naturally occurring nutrients lost during processing, storage, or handling; or to add a nutrient to a food at the level found in a comparable traditional food. When cereal grains are labeled as enriched, it is mandatory that they be fortified with folic acid.
• Freeganism A lifestyle and social movement that advocates for reducing waste by avoiding consumption of animal products and commercial goods.
• Frequency of eating Glossary of weight loss — The number of daily eating occasions (see Eating occasion).
• Gestational diabetes Glossary of weight loss — Diabetes occurring during pregnancy in women not previously diagnosed with diabetes.
• Gestational weight gain Glossary of weight loss — Weight a woman gains during pregnancy.
• Gluten-free diet A type of diet in which gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, is avoided. This diet is necessary for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
• Grapefruit diet A type of low-carbohydrate, low-calorie diet that emphasizes the consumption of grapefruit or grapefruit juice.
• Hallelujah Diet A plant-based diet that emphasizes raw and minimally processed foods and is promoted for its health benefits.
• Hara hachi bun me A Japanese phrase meaning "eat until you are 80% full". It is a principle of mindful eating and is promoted for its potential health benefits.
• Hay diet A type of elimination diet that categorizes food into groups and emphasizes separate consumption of carbohydrates and proteins.
• Health Glossary of weight loss — A state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
• Healthy diet A balanced and varied diet that includes a variety of foods from all food groups in appropriate portions to meet an individual's nutritional needs.
• High-fat diets Diets that emphasize a high intake of fats, typically in conjunction with low carbohydrate intake.
• High-fiber diets Diets that emphasize a high intake of fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• High-protein diet Diets that emphasize a high intake of protein-rich foods, such as meats, dairy, and legumes.
• Human milk feeding Glossary of weight loss — Feeding human milk alone or in combination with infant formula and/or complementary foods and beverages, such as cow milk. Scientific Report of the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee 8
• Human milk Glossary of weight loss — A mother’s own milk provided at the breast (i.e., nursing) or expressed and fed fresh or after refrigeration or freezing.
• Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy Glossary of weight loss — Disorders occurring during pregnancy that include gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and eclampsia.
• Infant formula Glossary of weight loss — A food that is represented for special dietary use solely as a food for infants by reason of its simulation of human milk or its suitability as a complete or partial substitute for human milk.
• Intermittent fasting A type of diet that involves periodic fasting for a specified period of time, often combined with calorie restriction. It has been promoted for its potential health benefits.
• Isocaloric Glossary of weight loss — Having the same energy values. For example, two dietary patterns that vary in macronutrient proportions but have the same energy content are isocaloric.
• Jean Harvey A researcher and professor in the field of nutrition and dietetics.
• Jenny Craig, Inc. A weight loss company that provides weight management programs, meals, and personal coaching.
• KE diet A type of low-calorie, low-carbohydrate diet that involves placement of a feeding tube for a set period of time.
• Ketogenic diet A type of low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that aims to induce a state of ketosis in the body, a metabolic state in which the body burns fat for fuel.
• Lacto vegetarianism A type of vegetarianism that avoids meat, poultry, and fish, but allows dairy products.
• Leaky gut syndrome A proposed medical condition in which the gut becomes more permeable, allowing harmful substances to leak into the bloodstream. It is not recognized as a diagnosis by mainstream medical organizations.
• Lean meat Glossary of weight loss — Any meat with less than 10 percent fat by weight, or less than 10 grams of fat per 100 grams, based on USDA and FDA definitions for food label use. Examples include 95 percent lean ground beef, cooked; broiled beef steak, lean only eaten; baked pork chop, lean only eaten; roasted chicken breast or leg, no skin eaten; and smoked/cured ham, lean only eaten.
• Life stages Glossary of weight loss — The age groups defined by the NHANES sampling weights or by the DRI age-sex groups. • Infants and toddlers (birth to less than 24 months) • Children and adolescents (ages 2 to 19 years) • Adults (ages 20 to 64 years) • Pregnant women (20 to 44 years) • Lactating women (20 to 44 years) • Older adults (ages 65 years and older)
• Lipid hypothesis The theory that a high intake of dietary fat and cholesterol contributes to the development of cardiovascular disease.
• Liposuction A type of cosmetic surgery that removes excess fat from the body through suction.
• Liquid diet A type of diet in which solid foods are replaced with liquids, such as soups, smoothies, and protein shakes, for a set period of time. This diet is sometimes used for weight loss or for medical reasons.
• Low sodium diet A type of diet that restricts the intake of sodium, a mineral commonly found in salt. This diet is often recommended for individuals with high blood pressure or heart disease.
• Low-FODMAP diet A type of diet that restricts the consumption of certain carbohydrates called FODMAPs, which are poorly absorbed by the gut and can cause digestive discomfort for some people.
• Low-carbohydrate diet A type of diet that restricts the intake of carbohydrates, such as sugars and starches.
• Low-carbohydrate diets See "Low-carbohydrate diet".
• Low-carbon diet A type of diet that aims to reduce the carbon footprint of an individual's food choices by emphasizing low-carbon foods and reducing the consumption of foods with high carbon emissions, such as animal-based products.
• Low-fat diet A type of diet that restricts the intake of fats, typically in an effort to reduce caloric intake and/or promote weight loss.
• Low-fiber/low-residue diet A type of diet that restricts the intake of high-fiber foods, such as whole grains and fruits, for medical reasons, such as reducing discomfort for individuals with digestive conditions.
• Low-protein diet A type of diet that restricts the intake of protein, often for medical reasons, such as reducing stress on the kidneys in individuals with kidney disease.
• Low-quantity diet A type of diet that restricts the overall quantity of food consumed, often for weight loss or to control calorie intake.
• Low-sulfur diet A type of diet that restricts the intake of sulfur-containing foods, such as red meat and dairy, for medical reasons, such as reducing symptoms of sulfite sensitivity.
• Mistakes to avoid for weight loss
• MIND diet A type of diet that emphasizes the consumption of foods that are beneficial for brain health, such as green leafy vegetables, berries, nuts, and whole grains.
• Macronutrient preload A type of diet strategy that involves consuming specific macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) before a meal to control hunger and food intake.
• Macronutrient Glossary of weight loss — A dietary component that provides energy. Macronutrients include protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Alcohol also provides energy but, for purposes of the Committee’s report, it is not considered when discussing macronutrients. Diets based on macronutrient distribution were considered as those in which at least once macronutrient proportion was outside of the AMDR (see Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range). 
• Management of obesity The medical treatment and lifestyle changes recommended for individuals who are overweight or obese to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
• Meal replacement A type of diet that involves consuming pre-packaged meals, shakes, or bars in place of regular meals for weight loss or to simplify meal planning.
• Meat-based diets Diets that emphasize the consumption of meat, either exclusively or as the main source of protein.
• Medifast A meal replacement diet that provides pre-packaged meals and snacks for weight loss.
• Mediterranean diet A type of diet that emphasizes the consumption of plant-based foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, along with moderate amounts of fish, poultry, and olive oil.
• Metabolic typing A type of diet that is customized based on an individual's metabolic profile, including factors such as hormone levels and enzymatic function.
• Montignac diet A type of diet that emphasizes the consumption of low-glycemic-index foods and restricts the consumption of high-glycemic-index foods for weight loss and blood sugar control.
• Morning banana diet A type of diet that involves consuming only bananas for breakfast and eating normally for lunch and dinner. This diet is not scientifically supported and may not provide adequate nutrition.
• Naturopathy A type of alternative medicine that emphasizes the use of natural remedies and lifestyle changes to promote health and wellness.
• Negative-calorie food A term used to describe foods that supposedly require more energy to digest than they provide, leading to negative net calorie intake. This concept is not scientifically supported.
• Neurocognitive development Glossary of weight loss — The maturation during infancy and childhood of the ability to think and reason. Domains include: cognitive development, language and communication development, movement and physical development, and social-emotional and behavioral development. Outcomes that affect, or can be affected by, neurocognitive development include academic performance, attention deficit disorder (ADD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression or autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
• Neurocognitive Glossary of weight loss — Having to do with the ability to think and reason, including the ability to concentrate, remember things, process information, learn, speak, and understand.
• Nutrient-Dense Representative Foods Glossary of weight loss — For the purpose of USDA’s food pattern modeling, nutrient-dense representative foods are those within each item cluster in forms with the least amounts of added sugars, sodium, and solid fats.
• Nutrient-dense foods Glossary of weight loss — Foods that are naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, and other substances and that may have positive health effects; that are lean or low in solid fats and do not have added solid fats, sugars, starches, or sodium; and that retain naturally-occurring components, such as fiber. All vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish, eggs, and nuts prepared without added solid fats or sugars are considered nutrient-dense, as are lean or low-fat forms of fluid milk, meat, and poultry prepared without added solid fats or sugars. Nutrient-dense foods provide substantial amounts of vitamins and minerals (micronutrients) and relatively few calories compared to forms of the food that have solid fat and/or added sugars.
• Nutrisystem A type of meal replacement diet that provides pre-packaged meals and snacks for weight loss.
• Nutrition Evidence Systematic Review (NESR) Glossary of weight loss — Formerly known as the Nutrition Evidence Library (NEL), NESR specializes in conducting food- and nutrition-related systematic reviews. NESR systematic reviews are research projects that answer important public health questions by using rigorous and transparent methods to search for, evaluate, analyze, and synthesize the body of scientific evidence on topics relevant to Federal policy and programs. For more information, visit: nesr.usda.gov.
• Nutritional biodiversity The variety of foods and nutrients consumed by individuals and populations, with a focus on the importance of consuming a wide range of foods for optimal health.
• Obesity medicine The medical treatment of obesity, including lifestyle modifications, medications, and bariatric surgery.
• Oils Glossary of weight loss — Fats that are liquid at room temperature. Oils come from many different plants and some fish. Some common oils include canola, corn, olive, peanut, safflower, soybean, and sunflower oils. A number of foods are naturally high in oils, such as: nuts, olives, some fish, and avocados. Foods that are mainly made up of oil include mayonnaise, certain salad dressings, and soft (tub or squeeze) margarine with no trans fats. Oils are high in monounsaturated or polyunsaturated Scientific Report of the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee 10 fats, and lower in saturated fats than solid fats. A few plant oils, termed tropical oils, including coconut oil, palm oil and palm kernel oil, are high in saturated fats and for nutritional purposes should be considered as solid fats. Partially-hydrogenated oils that contain trans fats should also be considered as solid fats for nutritional purposes (see Fats).
• Okinawa diet A type of diet that emphasizes the consumption of plant-based foods, such as sweet potatoes, soy products, and vegetables, along with moderate amounts of fish and small amounts of lean meat. This diet is based on the traditional eating patterns of the Okinawan people in Japan.
• Olestra A fat substitute that was once used in low-fat and fat-free snack products, but has since been discontinued due to potential side effects such as diarrhea and abdominal cramping.
• Organic food Food that is produced without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
• Ounce equivalent (oz eq) Glossary of weight loss — The amount of a food product that is considered equal to one ounce from the grain or protein foods food group. An oz eq for some foods may be less than a measured ounce in weight if the food is concentrated or low in water content (nuts, peanut butter, dried meats, flour) or more than a measured ounce in weight if the food contains a large amount of water (tofu, cooked beans, cooked rice or pasta).
• Overeaters Anonymous A support group for individuals who struggle with overeating and compulsive eating behaviors. The program is based on the 12-step model used in Alcoholics Anonymous.
• Pescetarianism A type of vegetarian diet that includes fish and other seafood in addition to plant-based foods.
• Physical exercise Physical activity that is performed with the purpose of improving or maintaining physical fitness and overall health.
• Planetary health diet A type of diet that aims to promote human health while also reducing the impact of food production on the environment. The diet emphasizes plant-based foods, with limited amounts of animal-based foods and oils.
• Plant-based diets Diets that are primarily composed of foods derived from plants, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and nuts.
• Pollotarianism A type of diet that includes poultry and other animal products, but not red meat or seafood.
• Polymeal A theoretical diet that was proposed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. It includes a mix of plant-based foods, wine, fish, and dark chocolate.
• Portfolio diet A type of diet that focuses on incorporating several different strategies for reducing cholesterol levels, such as high-fiber foods, nuts, soy products, and plant sterols.
• Portion size Glossary of weight loss — The amount of a food served or consumed in one eating occasion (see Eating occasion).
• Postpartum weight loss Glossary of weight loss — Change in weight from baseline during the postpartum period to a later time point during the postpartum period.
• Pray Your Weight Away A type of weight loss program that emphasizes the role of faith and spirituality in the journey to health and wellness.
• Preoperative fasting The practice of refraining from eating or drinking prior to a surgical procedure in order to minimize the risk of complications.
• Pritikin diet A type of diet that emphasizes low-fat, high-carbohydrate foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with moderate amounts of lean protein sources. The diet is based on the principles of the Pritikin Longevity Center in Florida. 
• Processed meat Glossary of weight loss — Meat, poultry, or seafood products preserved by smoking, curing or salting, or addition of chemical preservatives. Processed meat includes bacon, sausage, hot dogs, sandwich meat, packaged ham, pepperoni, and salami.
• Protein Glossary of weight loss — One type of macronutrient. Protein is the major functional and structural component of every animal cell. Proteins are composed of amino acids, nine of which are indispensable, meaning they cannot be synthesized by humans and therefore must be obtained from the diet. The quality of dietary protein is determined by its amino acid profile relative to human requirements as determined by the body's requirements for growth, maintenance, and repair. Protein quality is determined by two factors: digestibility and amino acid composition.
• Protocol Glossary of weight loss — A plan used by the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee to conduct a systematic review of a scientific question. Scientific Report of the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee 11
• Ralstonism A term used to describe the dietary and lifestyle practices of the followers of a 19th century health movement led by Webster Edgerly and his Ralston Health Club. The movement emphasized a meat-based diet, physical exercise, and a focus on health and wellness.
• Raw animal food diets A type of diet that consists of raw, uncooked animal products, such as raw meat, dairy, and eggs.
• Raw foodism A type of diet that emphasizes eating raw, uncooked plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.
• Reducetarian Foundation A non-profit organization that promotes the benefits of reducing meat consumption for both personal health and the health of the planet. The foundation provides resources and support for individuals interested in reducing their meat intake, and aims to create a more sustainable and equitable food system.
• Reference Amount Customarily Consumed (RACC) Glossary of weight loss — The serving size listed on a Nutrition Facts Label, which is based on a reference amount of food or beverage that is commonly eaten at a single eating occasion, as determined by the Food and Drug Administration.
• Refined grains Glossary of weight loss — Grains and grain products missing the bran, germ, and/or endosperm; any grain product that is not a whole grain. Many refined grains are low in fiber but enriched with thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and iron, and fortified with folic acid.
• Renal diet A type of diet that is specifically designed for individuals with kidney disease or kidney failure. This diet restricts the intake of certain nutrients, such as protein, sodium, and potassium, in order to manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
• Rosedale diet A low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet developed by Dr. Ron Rosedale. The diet focuses on limiting carbohydrate intake and increasing fat consumption in order to achieve optimal hormonal balance and improve overall health.
• Sarcopenia Glossary of weight loss — A progressive and generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass, alone or in conjunction with either or both low muscle strength and low muscle performance.
• Sattvic diet A type of diet based on the principles of Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine. The sattvic diet emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains, and limits consumption of foods that are considered to be heavy, oily, or stimulating, such as meat, dairy, and caffeine.
• Seafood Glossary of weight loss — Marine animals that live in the sea and in freshwater lakes and rivers. Seafood includes fish, such as salmon, tuna, trout, and tilapia, and shellfish, such as shrimp, crab, and oysters.
• Seaganism A type of diet that combines elements of a vegan diet with seafood consumption. This type of diet allows for the consumption of plant-based foods and seafood, but restricts the consumption of all other animal products.
• Serving size A term used to describe the recommended portion size of a food item. The serving size is determined based on the recommended daily calorie intake and nutrient needs of an individual.
• Set point theory A theory in the field of obesity research that suggests that the body has a natural weight range that it tends to maintain, and that weight loss or gain occurs as the body tries to return to this set point weight.
• Simplesse A type of fat substitute that was developed in the 1980s. Simplesse is made from proteins and carbohydrates and is used to provide a creamy texture and mouthfeel to low-fat and non-fat foods.
• Slimming club A type of organization or program that provides support, guidance, and resources to individuals seeking to lose weight. Slimming clubs often offer group meetings, diet and exercise plans, and access to weight loss experts.
• Socioeconomic status Glossary of weight loss — An economic and sociologic measure defined by factors such as income in dollars, income as a percent of the poverty ratio, food security, eligibility for federal assistance programs, or level of education.
• Soft diet A type of diet that consists of soft, easily-chewed foods. This type of diet is often recommended for individuals with dental problems, digestive issues, or after certain medical procedures.
• Solid fats Glossary of weight loss — Fats that are usually solid at room temperature. Solid fats are found in animal foods except for seafood, and can be made from vegetable oils through hydrogenation. Some tropical oil plants, such as coconut and palm, are considered as solid fats due to their fatty acid composition. Solid fats contain more saturated fats and/or trans fats than liquid oils (e.g., soybean, canola, and corn oils), and lower amounts of monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fatty acids. Common fats considered to be solid fats include: butterfat, beef fat (tallow, suet), chicken fat, pork fat (lard), stick margarine, shortening, coconut oil, palm oil and palm kernel oil. Foods high in solid fats include: butter, full-fat cheeses, creams, whole milk, full-fat ice creams, marbled cuts of meats, regular ground beef, bacon, sausages, poultry skin, and many baked goods made using these products (such as cookies, crackers, doughnuts, pastries, and croissants).The fat component of milk and cream (butter) is solid at room temperature (see Fats).
• Sonoma diet A type of diet developed by Dr. Connie Guttersen that emphasizes the consumption of whole, nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. The diet is based on the traditional Mediterranean diet, but incorporates elements of the Californian cuisine of the Sonoma region.
• Sugar-sweetened beverages Glossary of weight loss — Liquids that are sweetened with various forms of added sugars. These beverages include, but are not limited to, soda (regular, not sugar-free), fruitades, sports Scientific Report of the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee 12 drinks, energy drinks, sweetened waters, and coffee and tea beverages with added sugars. Also called calorically sweetened beverages.
• The Hacker's Diet A diet and weight loss plan that emphasizes tracking food intake and calculating calories based on mathematical formulas.
• Tongue Patch Diet A weight loss procedure that involves surgically affixing a patch to the tongue, making it difficult to eat solid foods.
• Total Diet Study A program conducted by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to monitor levels of chemical contaminants, nutrients, and other substances in the average American diet.
• Vegetarian (film) A 2003 film by Graham Walker about a vegetarian trying to survive in a world dominated by carnivores.
• Vegetarian diets Diets that exclude meat and may include dairy, eggs, and other animal-derived products.
• Vegetarianism A lifestyle choice characterized by the consumption of plant-based foods and the avoidance of meat and other animal-derived products.
• WW International A weight management and wellness company formerly known as Weight Watchers.
• Weight Watchers (diet) A weight loss program that provides support and guidance for members to help them reach their goals.
• Weight Wins A weight loss program that provides customized plans and personalized support to help individuals reach their goals.
• Weight cycling The repeated loss and regain of body weight, also known as "yo-yo dieting."
• Weight loss camp A program where individuals stay in a dedicated facility to receive education and support for weight loss.
• Weight loss coaching A service where an individual works with a coach to develop a weight loss plan and receive guidance and support.
• Weight loss companies Businesses that offer products, services, and support to help individuals lose weight.
• Weight loss A decrease in body weight resulting from a reduction in body fat, muscle, or other tissue.
• Weight management The process of maintaining a healthy body weight through a combination of diet, physical activity, and other lifestyle modifications.
• Wellspring Academies A network of weight loss camps for children and teens.
• Werewolf diet A diet that involves consuming only raw, uncooked food in the belief that it will help individuals tap into their primal nature and improve health.
• Western pattern diet A diet that is high in fat, sugar, and processed foods, and is associated with a higher risk of obesity and chronic disease.
• Whole grains Glossary of weight loss — Grains and grain products made from the entire grain seed, usually called the kernel, which consists of the bran, germ, and endosperm. If the kernel has been cracked, crushed, or flaked, it must retain the same relative proportions of bran, germ, and endosperm as the original grain in order to be called whole grain. Many, but not all, whole grains also are sources of dietary fiber.
• Whole30 A 30-day diet program that involves eliminating certain foods, such as sugar, grains, dairy, legumes, and alcohol, and focusing on whole, unprocessed foods.
• WholyFit A Christian-based fitness and wellness program that emphasizes exercise and healthy eating.
• Xibalba The ancient Maya underworld, which has been associated with weight loss and dieting due to its depiction of emaciated figures.
• Zone diet A diet that aims to balance the proportion of macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, and fat) consumed at each meal to regulate hormone levels and reduce inflammation.
• cholesterol. Two kinds of lipoproteins are: High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) Glossary of weight loss — Blood cholesterol often called “good” cholesterol; carries cholesterol from tissues to the liver, which removes it from
• Omega-3 fatty acids Glossary of weight loss — The three main omega-3 fatty acids are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Alphalinolenic acid is required because it cannot be synthesized by humans and, therefore, is considered essential in the diet. Primary sources include soybean oil, canola oil, walnuts, and flaxseed. EPA and DHA are very long chain omega-3 fatty acids that are found in fish and shellfish.
• Omega-6 fatty acids Glossary of weight loss — There are four main omega-6 fatty acids: linoleic acid (LA), arachidonic acid (ARA), gamma linoleic acid (GLA), and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). Linoleic acid is required because it cannot be synthesized by humans and, therefore, is considered essential in the diet. Primary sources of LA are nuts and liquid vegetable oils, including soybean oil, corn oil, and safflower oil.
• Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) Glossary of weight loss — Blood cholesterol often called “bad” cholesterol; carries cholesterol to arteries and tissues. A high LDL-C level in the blood leads to a buildup of cholesterol in arteries. Scientific Report of the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee 3
• Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Ranges (AMDR) Glossary of weight loss — Range of intake for a particular energy source that is associated with reduced risk of chronic disease while providing intakes of essential nutrients. If an individual’s intake is outside of the AMDR, there is a potential of increasing the risk of chronic diseases and/or insufficient intakes of essential nutrients.
• Adequate Intakes (AI) Glossary of weight loss — A recommended average daily nutrient intake level based on observed or experimentally determined approximations or estimates of mean nutrient intake by a group (or groups) of apparently healthy people. This is used when the Recommended Dietary Allowance cannot be determined.
• Animal protein Glossary of weight loss — Protein from meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, and milk and milk products.
• Blood cholesterol Glossary of weight loss — Cholesterol that travels in the serum of the blood as distinct particles containing both lipids and proteins (lipoproteins). Also referred to as serum
• Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Intakes (CDRR) Glossary of weight loss — The lowest level of intake for which a sufficient strength of evidence exists to characterize a chronic disease risk reduction. This nutrient reference value is currently available only for sodium.
• Dietary cholesterol Glossary of weight loss — Cholesterol found in foods of animal origin, including meat, seafood, poultry, eggs, and dairy products. Plant foods, such as grains, vegetables, fruits, and oils, do not contain dietary cholesterol. Complementary feeding― The process that starts when human milk or infant formula is complemented by other foods and beverages. The complementary feeding period typically continues to age 24 months as the young child transitions fully to family foods.
• Estimated Average Requirements (EAR) Glossary of weight loss — The average daily nutrient intake level estimated to meet the requirement of half the healthy individuals in a particular life stage and sex group.
• Fiber Glossary of weight loss — Nondigestible carbohydrates and lignin that are intrinsic and intact in plants. Fiber consists of dietary fiber, the fiber naturally occurring in foods, and functional fiber, which are isolated, nondigestible carbohydrates that have beneficial physiological effects in humans.
• Monounsaturated fat Glossary of weight loss — Monounsaturated fats have one double bond. They are found in both animal and plant products. Plant sources that are rich in monounsaturated fat include nuts and vegetable oils that are liquid at room temperature (e.g., canola oil, olive oil, high oleic safflower and sunflower oils).
• Polyunsaturated fat Glossary of weight loss — Polyunsaturated fats have two or more double bonds and may be of two types, based on the position of the first double bond. Polyunsaturated fats are found in many different plants and some fish sources.
• Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) Glossary of weight loss — The average dietary intake level that is sufficient to meet the nutrient requirement of nearly all (97 to 98 percent) healthy individuals in a particular life stage and sex group.
• Saturated fat Glossary of weight loss — Saturated fats have no double bonds. Major sources include animal products, such as meat and dairy products, and tropical oils such as coconut or palm oils. In general, fats high in saturated fatty acids are solid at room temperature.
• Starches Glossary of weight loss — Many glucose units linked together. Examples of foods containing starch include vegetables, dry beans and peas, and grains (e.g., rice, oats, wheat, barley, corn).
• Sugars Glossary of weight loss — A simple carbohydrate composed of one unit (a monosaccharide, such as glucose and fructose) or two joined units (a disaccharide, such as lactose and sucrose). Sugars include white and brown sugar, fruit sugar, corn syrup, molasses, and honey (see Added sugars).
• Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) Glossary of weight loss — The highest average daily nutrient intake level likely to pose no risk of adverse health effects for nearly all individuals in a particular life stage and sex group. As intake increases above the UL, the potential risk of adverse health effects increases.
• Vegetable protein Glossary of weight loss — Protein from plants such as dry beans, whole grains, fruit, nuts, and seeds.
• trans fat Glossary of weight loss — Trans fats are unsaturated fatty acids that contain one or more isolated (i.e., nonconjugated) double bonds in a trans configuration. Trans fatty acids present in foods that come from ruminant animals (e.g., cattle and sheep). Such foods include dairy products, beef, and lamb.

Also see

• Glossary_of_weight_loss (WikiMD)
• Glossary_of_weight_loss (Wikipedia)

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