Chapter 8 Terms - The Science of Nutrition

Beriberi

A disease caused by thiamin deficiency, characterised by muscle wasting and nerve damage.

Ariboflavinosis

A condition caused by riboflavin deficiency.

Pellagra

A disease that results from severe niacin deficiency.

Homocysteine

An amino acid that requires adequate levels of folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 for its metabolism. High levels of this in the blood are associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease.

Intrinsic Factor

A protein secreted by cells of the stomach that binds to vitamin B12 and aids its absorption in the small intestine.

Atrophic Gastritis

A condition, frequently seen in people over the age of 50, in which stomach-acid secretions are low.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter that is involved in many functions, including muscle movement and memory storage.

Goiter

Enlargement of the thyroid gland; can be caused by iodine toxicity or deficiency.

Cretinism

A unique form of mental impairment that occurs in infants when the mother experiences iodine deficiency during pregnancy.

Hypothyroidism

A condition characterised by low blood levels of thyroid hormone.

Hyperthyroidism

A condition characterised by high blood levels of thyroid hormone.

B-Vitamins

Thiamin (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Vitamin B6, Niacin (B3), Folate (B9), Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin), Pantothenic Acid, Biotin