9781422269879

WORDS TO UNDERSTAND

Antioxidants: Various protective compounds found in plants that can reduce the natural damage that everyday activities (and lifestyle choices) do to the cells in the body. Calories: Units of measure of how much energy a food or drink provides to the human body. Consuming more food energy than a person uses leads to weight gain. In the United States and much of the world, people consume more energy than they need. Chronic disease: A medical condition that lasts for a year or more, impacts a person’s daily living, and requires regular medical care. Nutrient-dense: Refers to a food that has a lot of naturally occurring nutrition, compared to its size and calories. Processed food: A food that has been changed from its original form to make it more convenient, longer-lasting, and/or easier to eat. Whole food: A food that is very close to its original form, with nothing added or taken away except inedible parts.

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