Glossary
Catecholamines: Catecholamines include epinephrine and norepinephrine which are hormones released by the adrenal medulla (a gland above the kidney).Cortisol: Cortisol is a hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex and helps in regulation of glucose metabolism.
Glucagon: Glucagon is a hormone secreted by the pancreatic alpha cells which help in raising blood glucose levels.
Growth hormone: Growth hormone is released by the anterior pituitary, a structure near the brain, which stimulates protein synthesis and promotes growth.
‘Fight and flight’ response: It is a sympathetic response by our body in conditions of acute stress where in the glucose is directed towards the structures which will help in fight and flight, i.e. brain, muscles and heart, from structures that do not need it, i.e. the abdominal organs. The pupils are dilated in this condition, sphincters are contracted, and muscles are ready for a response.
Neuro-humoral response: It is the response produced by neural and humoral factors (chemical mediators) against stressful stimuli.
Irritable bowel syndrome: It is a syndrome comprising of pain in abdomen and altered bowel habits.
Fibromyalgia: It is a condition characterized by chronic pain and tenderness in response to pressure in various parts of the body. It affects the muscles and soft tissues.
Globus syndrome: It is a condition in which there is a feeling of lump in one’s throat.
Proprioception: It is the ability to have a sense of position of a structure of your body in relation to its neighboring structures. It is also called ‘Position sense’ or ‘Joint sense’.
Endorphins: Endogenous morphine-like compounds which, when released by the body, induce a state of euphoria like other opioid substances.
Flavonoids: Flavonoids are chemical compounds found in certain foods such as parsley, blueberry, black tea, etc. and have beneficial health effects.
