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Wellness
Glossary
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X - Y - Z
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Pancreas: A gland that makes enzymes that help the body break down and use
nutrients in food. It also produces the hormones insulin and glucagon, releasing
these into the bloodstream to help the body control blood sugar levels.
Pedometer: A small device that counts each step taken, total distance walked, or
other related measures. It is usually worn on the waistband or in a
pocket.
Piriformis syndrome: A condition caused by the sciatic nerve getting pinched as
it exits the spinal column. (Sometimes, it can mimic the symptoms of sciatica.)
The pinching is sometimes caused by muscles spasms. Piriformis syndrome
sometimes causes pain along the back of the thigh to the knee, or loss of
feeling in the soles of the feet.
Plantar fasciitis: Inflammation of the ligament running from the front of the
heel bone through the bottom of the foot. Repetitive motions such as quick stops
and starts during sports, or long distance running, have sometimes been
associated with Plantar fasciitis.
Phenylethanolamine (PEA): A chemical found in chocolate that elevates mood.
It is thought to be the compound that causes chocolate cravings.
Physical activity: Any form of exercise or movement. Physical activity may
include planned activity such as walking, running, basketball, or other sports.
Physical activity may also include other daily activities such as household
chores, yard work, walking the dog, etc.
Physical fitness: The measure of a person’s ability to perform physical
activities that require endurance, strength, or flexibility and is determined by
a combination of regular activity and genetically inherited ability.
Physical Therapy: The health profession that treats pain in muscles,
nerves, joints, and bones with exercise, electrical stimulation, hydrotherapy,
and the use of massage, heat, cold, and electrical devices.
Polyunsaturated fat: A highly unsaturated fat that is liquid at room
temperature. Fats that are in foods are combinations of monounsaturated,
polyunsaturated, and saturated fatty acids. Polyunsaturated fats are found in
greatest amounts in corn, soybean, and safflower oils, and many types of
nuts. They have the same number of calories as other types of fat, and may still
contribute to weight gain if eaten in excess.
Protein: One of the three nutrients that provides calories to the body.
Protein is an essential nutrient that helps build many parts of the body,
including muscle, bone, skin, and blood. Protein provides 4 calories per
gram and is found in foods like meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products,
beans, nuts, and tofu.
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Dr. Charles R. Dixon, D.C., F.A.S.A. ~ 903-849-2200