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albumin
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the most abundant protein circulating in the blood, with many functions within the body; used as a marker for protein status
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body image
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perception a person has about their physical body, including any feelings associated with that perception
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body mass index (BMI)
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a value that is calculated from an individual’s height and weight to provide as measurement relative to the standards for ideal body weight
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calorie
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a unit measure of energy
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carbohydrate
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macronutrient used to fuel the immediate energy needs of the body
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cellular respiration
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the breakdown of energy-rich nutrients (carbohydrates, fats, and proteins) to provide ATP, which fuels cellular functions within the body
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dehydration
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a fluid volume deficit that occurs with inadequate water intake or excessive water loss or both
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Dietary Reference Intake (DRI)
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scientifically developed values for essential nutrients and other food components
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enteral nutrition
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nutrition that is directly administered into the stomach
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esophageal duodenostomy (EGD)
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an invasive procedure performed under anesthesia in which an endoscopic tube is advanced through the pharynx, esophagus, and gastric pouch to check for anomalies such as esophageal strictures and peptic ulcers
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fat
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large, complex molecule made up of fatty acids and glycerol
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food desert
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a geographical area where fresh produce and foodstuffs are either too expensive or unavailable
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food insecurity
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the state of having limited access to adequate food
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ideal body weight (IBW)
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weight at which a person maintains optimal health benefits
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macronutrient
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nutrient consumed in large quantities to meet the body’s energy needs
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malnutrition
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an imbalance between the nutrients consumed and nutrients needed; includes both undernutrition and overnutrition and involves both macronutrients and micronutrients
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metabolism
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the process by which substances are chemically broken down to meet the body’s nutrient and energy needs
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micronutrient
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nutrient found in small quantities within the body but still necessary for physiological functions
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mineral
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essential to physiological processing; some are macronutrients, and some are micronutrients
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modified barium swallow study (MBSS)
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a procedure for viewing the anatomical and swallowing physiology of a bolus of food under video fluoroscopy
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parenteral nutrition (PN)
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nutrition delivered intravenously by a central line
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protein
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macronutrient made up of amino acids
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Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs)
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guidelines developed by the U.S. government for consuming the nutrients that make up a healthy diet
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Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
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average daily intake of a population
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vitamin
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essential micronutrient vital to biochemical regulation within the human body