Unit 4: B2 Vocabulary Health and Wellness Articles
Metabolism
Definition: The chemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life.
Example: Regular exercise can boost your metabolism and help you burn more calories throughout the day.
Chronic
Definition: Long-lasting or constantly recurring, often used to describe diseases.
Example: Chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease can be prevented with regular physical activity.
Endorphins
Definition: Hormones secreted within the brain and nervous system that have a number of physiological functions, including pain relief and mood enhancement.
Example: Exercise releases endorphins, which can improve your mood and reduce stress.
Cardiovascular
Definition: Relating to the heart and blood vessels.
Example: Cardiovascular exercises, like running and swimming, improve heart health.
Flexibility
Definition: The quality of bending easily without breaking; the ability to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities.
Example: Yoga is great for improving your flexibility and reducing the risk of injuries.
Resistance
Definition: The ability not to be affected by something, especially adversely.
Example: Resistance training, such as weight lifting, builds muscle strength and endurance.
Stability
Definition: The state of being stable; strong enough to endure or resist.
Example: Balance exercises like tai chi help to improve your stability and prevent falls.
Nutrients
Definition: Substances that provide nourishment essential for growth and the maintenance of life.
Example: A balanced diet includes a variety of nutrients necessary for your body to function properly.
Antioxidants
Definition: Molecules that inhibit the oxidation of other molecules, protecting cells from damage.
Example: Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, which can protect your body from harmful free radicals.
Lean
Definition: Containing little fat.
Example: Lean protein sources, like fish and poultry, are beneficial for building and repairing tissues.
Calcium
Definition: A mineral that is essential for bone health and other bodily functions.
Example: Dairy products are high in calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones.
Inflammation
Definition: A localized physical condition in which part of the body becomes reddened, swollen, hot, and often painful, especially as a reaction to injury or infection.
Example: Healthy fats, such as those found in avocados and olive oil, help to reduce inflammation in the body.
Portion
Definition: A part or share of the whole.
Example: Being mindful of portion sizes can help prevent overeating and maintain a healthy weight.
Hydrated
Definition: Having absorbed enough water or other liquid.
Example: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day keeps you hydrated and supports overall health.
Processed
Definition: Having been treated or prepared by a special method, especially in the context of food.
Example: Processed foods often contain high levels of added sugars and unhealthy fats.
Deficiency
Definition: A lack or shortage of something.
Example: Chronic sleep deficiency can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease and diabetes.
Regulate
Definition: To control or maintain the rate or speed of a process so that it operates properly.
Example: Getting enough sleep helps to regulate your emotions and reduce stress levels.
Susceptibility
Definition: The state of being likely to be influenced or harmed by a particular thing.
Example: Sleep deficiency increases your susceptibility to infections and illnesses.
Hormones
Definition: Regulatory substances produced in an organism and transported in tissue fluids such as blood to stimulate specific cells or tissues into action.
Example: Sleep influences the balance of hormones that control hunger and appetite.
Appetite
Definition: A natural desire to satisfy a bodily need, especially for food.
Example: Lack of sleep can increase your appetite and lead to weight gain.
Distractions
Definition: Things that prevent someone from giving full attention to something else.
Example: Creating a restful environment free from distractions can improve your sleep quality.
Stimulants
Definition: Substances that raise levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body.
Example: Avoiding stimulants like caffeine in the evening can help you sleep better.
Immune
Definition: Resistant to a particular infection or toxin owing to the presence of specific antibodies or sensitized white blood cells.
Example: Quality sleep supports a strong immune system, helping you fight off infections.
Efficiency
Definition: The ability to accomplish a task with the least waste of time and effort.
Example: Exercise improves cardiovascular efficiency, making it easier to perform daily tasks.
Endurance
Definition: The ability to endure an unpleasant or difficult process or situation without giving way.
Example: Regular physical activity builds endurance, allowing you to stay active for longer periods.