Glossary

glossary

Thyroxine (T4)

Inactive thyroid hormone; functional medicine emphasizes its conversion to active T3.

Other Terms

Adaptive Immunity

The immune system’s specific response to pathogens or foreign substances.

Adaptive Immunity

Adaptogens

Natural substances that help the body adapt to stress and maintain homeostasis.

Adaptogens

Adiponectin

A hormone released by fat cells that improves insulin sensitivity and promotes fat burning.

Adiponectin

Adrenal Fatigue

Chronic stress-related imbalances in cortisol production.

Adrenal Fatigue

Adrenal Stress Profile

Assesses cortisol and DHEA levels to evaluate stress response.

Adrenal Stress Profile

Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs)

Measures compounds linked to oxidative stress and aging.

Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs)

Allostatic Load

The cumulative wear and tear on the body from chronic stress.

Allostatic Load

Anthocyanins

Pigments in plants that give red, purple, and blue colors, with antioxidant properties.

Anthocyanins

Antioxidant Capacity

The body’s ability to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage.

Antioxidant Capacity

Antioxidants

Molecules that prevent oxidative damage by neutralizing free radicals.

Antioxidants

Apigenin

A flavonoid found in many plants with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Apigenin

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)

Measures the number of atherogenic lipoproteins; a strong predictor of cardiovascular risk.

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)

Autoimmune Antibody Panel

Identifies antibodies related to autoimmune conditions.

Autoimmune Antibody Panel

Autoimmune Conditions

Disorders where the immune system attacks the body, e.g., lupus, MS, RA.

Autoimmune Conditions

Autoimmune Disease

Conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s tissues.

Autoimmune Disease

Autophagy

The body's process of cleaning out damaged cells and regenerating newer, healthier ones.

Autophagy

BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound)

A synthetic peptide derived from a protein in the stomach; supports tissue repair, gut healing, and reduces inflammation in joints and muscles.

BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound)

Bioavailability

The extent and rate at which a substance is absorbed and used by the body.

Bioavailability

Biofeedback

A technique using monitoring devices to gain control over physiological functions.

Biofeedback

Bioidentical Hormones

Natural hormone replacements (e.g., estrogen, progesterone, testosterone) tailored for hormonal imbalances.

Bioidentical Hormones
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