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Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)
This is the primary fuel used by cells to generate the biochemical reactions essential for life.
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Adrenals
The glands located on the top of the kidneys that are responsible for the production of stress-related hormones, such as cortisol, DHEA, and adrenaline.
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Adrenocortiotrophic Hormone (ACTH)
The hormone released from the pituitary gland that interacts with receptors on the adrenal gland to begin the process of cortisol and DHEA production. ACTH uses the second messenger cyclic AMP to signal target cells in the adrenal gland.
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Advanced Glycosylation Endproduct
The polymerized end products of protein cross-linked with glucose. AGE's tend to adhere to capillaries and arteries increasing the risk of heart disease, blindness, and kidney failure. AGE's are best estimated by the levels of glycosylated hemoglobin in the bloodstream.
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Aerobic Capacity
The body's ability to process oxygen. It is a combination of lung capacity, the size of the capillaries, the pumping action of the heart, and transfer of oxygen from red blood cells to target tissues.
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Aerobic Exercise
Exercise with a low enough intensity to facilitate adequate oxygen transfer to the muscle cells so that no buildup of lactic acid is observed. This type of exercise is useful for reducing insulin levels and lowering blood glucose.
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Aging
The general deterioration of the body with increasing age.
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Amino Acids
These are the building blocks of protein. There are eight essential amino acids the body cannot make and, therefore, must be included in the foods you eat.
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Amygdala
The portion of the limbic system in the brain that processes emotions.
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Anabolic Steroids
Synthetic analogs of testosterone that maintain the anabolic (i.e. muscle-building effects) while reducing the virilization effects of testosterone.
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Anaerobic Exercise
Exercise at an intensity that exceeds the ability to supply oxygen to the muscle cells leading to the buildup of lactic acid. Anaerobic exercise stimulates the synthesis of both growth hormone and testosterone.
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Anti-aging Zone Lifestyle Pyramid
The combination of the Zone Diet, moderate exercise, and meditation that interact to reduce the four pillars of aging (excess insulin, excess blood glucose, excess free radicals, and excess cortisol). Of the three components of the Anti-aging Zone Lifestyle Pyramid, the Zone Diet is by far the most important.
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Arachidonic Acid
An essential fatty acid that is the immediate precursor to "bad" eicosanoids found in fatty red meats, egg yolks, and organ meats.
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Autocrine Hormones
Hormones that act upon the secreting cell. They are used to sample the immediate environment surrounding the cell. Eicosanoids are the best-known example of autocrine hormones.
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