The building blocks of most of the cells in the human body.
ATP-PC System
The fast energy system. It can supply an intense burst of energy for around ten to twelve seconds.
Body Composition
The ratio of fat to lean tissue you carry.
Calorie
A measure of energy.
Carbohydrate
The body’s preferred source of energy. These come from starchy foods such as potatoes and rice. They are the only nonessential macronutrient. Every gram of carbohydrate contains four calories.
Complex Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates that are broken down and digested slowly.
Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)
A fatty acid associated with healthy body fat levels.
Fat
Stores energy, retains crucial vitamins, protects the organs, and encourages healthy skin and hair. Despite the shared name, this does not make you fat and is essential for your body. Each gram of fat contains nine calories.
Glucose
A simple sugar molecule.
Glycemic Index
Measures how fast carbs are digested. Carbs lower on the glycemic index will generally be higher in fiber and keep you feeling full longer.
The medium energy system. This powers your moderate-to-high intensity, short- duration activities, such as sprinting or lifting weights.
Macronutrient
Proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. They are essential to any good nutrition plan and supply the energy, fuel, and nutrients needed to live.
Micronutrient
The vitamins and minerals that allow your body to function at an optimal level.
Muscular Hypertrophy
The process of growing new muscle. It is the combined result of heavy resistance training and excess calorie intake.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
One of two common omega fatty acids. It can increase mental functions, decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease, decrease inflammation and joint pain, and offers many more benefits.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids
One of two common omega fatty acids. It is common in processed and fried foods. Avoid when possible.
Oxidative System
The slow energy system. This provides a sustained release of energy for low-to- moderate activities such as long runs, swimming, or hiking.
Protein
Helps rebuild and repair damaged tissue and cells. This is essential for optimal health and body functioning. Every gram of protein contains four calories.
Saturated Fats
A decent kind of fat. You need some of these, but try to avoid them when possible.
Simple Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates that are broken down and digested quickly.
The only truly bad fat. These have a negative effect on your cholesterol and heart health.
Unsaturated Fats
The best kind of fat. These have been shown to improve your good cholesterol and reduce your bad cholesterol.