Unit 4 B2 Vocabulary: Health and Wellness

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.