Implementing Wellness Plans
Expert-defined terms from the Certificate in Functional Medicine and Wellness Coaching course at London School of International Business. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Acute Stress Response #
Acute Stress Response
Concept #
The immediate physiological reaction to a perceived threat. Related terms: fight‑or‑flight, cortisol surge, sympathetic activation. Explanation: The body releases adrenaline and cortisol, increasing heart rate and blood pressure to mobilize energy. Example: A client feels rapid heartbeat before a presentation. Practical application: Coach guides breathing techniques to modulate the response. Challenges: Differentiating normal stress from chronic dysregulation.
Adherence Monitoring #
Adherence Monitoring
Concept #
Tracking a client’s consistency with prescribed wellness actions. Related terms: Compliance, self‑reporting, digital tracking. Explanation: Systematic collection of data on diet, exercise, sleep, and supplement intake. Example: Using a mobile app to log daily water consumption. Practical application: Review logs weekly to adjust goals. Challenges: Client forgetfulness and data entry fatigue.
Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) #
Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)
Concept #
Cellular energy currency. Related terms: Mitochondria, oxidative phosphorylation, energy metabolism. Explanation: ATP provides immediate energy for cellular processes; its production reflects metabolic health. Example: Low ATP levels may manifest as fatigue in a client. Practical application: Recommend nutrient‑dense foods to support mitochondrial function. Challenges: Identifying subtle ATP deficits without laboratory testing.
Allostatic Load #
Allostatic Load
Concept #
Cumulative wear and tear on the body due to chronic stress. Related terms: Stress adaptation, cortisol rhythm, physiological burden. Explanation: Repeated activation of stress pathways leads to dysregulated systems. Example: Elevated blood pressure and insulin resistance in a client with high allostatic load. Practical application: Implement stress‑reduction protocols and lifestyle modifications. Challenges: Measuring load accurately; requires multi‑system assessment.
Amino Acid Profile #
Amino Acid Profile
Concept #
The spectrum of free amino acids present in blood or urine. Related terms: Protein synthesis, neurotransmitter precursors, metabolic panels. Explanation: Imbalances can affect mood, immunity, and muscle repair. Example: Low tryptophan correlates with depressive symptoms. Practical application: Tailor diet to increase specific amino acids. Challenges: Variability due to recent meals; requires fasting samples.
Anthropometry #
Anthropometry
Concept #
Measurement of the human body’s size, shape, and composition. Related terms: BMI, waist‑to‑hip ratio, skinfold thickness. Explanation: Provides baseline data for tracking physical changes. Example: Measuring mid‑upper arm circumference to monitor muscle gain. Practical application: Use data to set realistic body composition goals. Challenges: Inter‑observer variability; requires standardized technique.
Anti‑Inflammatory Diet #
Anti‑Inflammatory Diet
Concept #
Dietary pattern that reduces systemic inflammation. Related terms: Omega‑3 fatty acids, polyphenols, glycemic load. Explanation: Emphasizes whole foods, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish while limiting processed sugars and trans fats. Example: Replacing refined grains with quinoa in a client’s meals. Practical application: Create meal plans incorporating anti‑inflammatory foods. Challenges: Client preferences, cultural food norms, and cost.
Behavioral Change Theory #
Behavioral Change Theory
Concept #
Frameworks describing how individuals modify health behaviors. Related terms: Transtheoretical Model, Self‑Determination Theory, Motivational Interviewing. Explanation: Provides insight into stages of readiness and intrinsic motivation. Example: Identifying a client in the “precontemplation” stage for exercise adoption. Practical application: Tailor coaching strategies to stage‑specific needs. Challenges: Misidentifying stage; over‑reliance on a single model.
Biomarker Panel #
Biomarker Panel
Concept #
A set of laboratory tests that collectively assess health status. Related terms: CBC, lipid profile, inflammatory markers, hormone panel. Explanation: Offers a comprehensive view of physiological function to guide wellness plans. Example: Ordering a high‑sensitivity C‑reactive protein test to gauge inflammation. Practical application: Use results to prioritize interventions. Challenges: Cost, insurance coverage, and interpretation complexity.
Biofeedback #
Biofeedback
Concept #
Technique that provides real‑time physiological data to the client. Related terms: Heart‑rate variability (HRV), neurofeedback, stress monitoring. Explanation: Enables clients to gain awareness and control over autonomic functions. Example: Using a HRV sensor to train relaxation response. Practical application: Incorporate biofeedback sessions into coaching programs. Challenges: Equipment expense, client learning curve, and data reliability.
Biorhythm Assessment #
Biorhythm Assessment
Concept #
Evaluation of circadian and ultradian cycles influencing health. Related terms: Sleep‑wake pattern, melatonin rhythm, chronotype. Explanation: Misaligned biorhythms can impair metabolism and mood. Example: Identifying a night‑owl chronotype in a client with late‑night snacking. Practical application: Adjust meal timing and activity scheduling accordingly. Challenges: Accurate tracking; requires consistent logging.
Body Composition Analysis #
Body Composition Analysis
Concept #
Determination of fat mass, lean mass, and water content. Related terms: DEXA, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), skinfold calipers. Explanation: Provides a more precise health metric than weight alone. Example: A client with stable weight but decreasing body fat after resistance training. Practical application: Set goals based on lean mass gains rather than scale changes. Challenges: Access to equipment; hydration status influencing results.
Caloric Density #
Caloric Density
Concept #
Amount of energy per unit weight of food. Related terms: Energy density, satiety, portion control. Explanation: High‑calorie‑dense foods can lead to overconsumption without fullness. Example: Comparing the caloric density of nuts versus leafy greens. Practical application: Educate clients on selecting lower‑density foods for weight management. Challenges: Client misconceptions about “healthy” high‑fat foods.
Capillary Glucose Monitoring #
Capillary Glucose Monitoring
Concept #
Point‑of‑care measurement of blood glucose via fingertip sample. Related terms: Glycemic control, continuous glucose monitor (CGM), fasting glucose. Explanation: Allows real‑time feedback on dietary impact. Example: Client observes glucose spikes after sugary snack. Practical application: Use data to adjust carbohydrate intake and timing. Challenges: User error, cost of test strips, and data overload.
Chronic Disease Risk Assessment (CDRA) #
Chronic Disease Risk Assessment (CDRA)
Concept #
Systematic evaluation of factors predisposing to long‑term illnesses. Related terms: Framingham risk score, metabolic syndrome, lifestyle audit. Explanation: Combines medical history, labs, and lifestyle data to estimate risk. Example: Calculating 10‑year cardiovascular risk for a client. Practical application: Prioritize interventions based on highest risk contributors. Challenges: Data completeness; risk calculators may not account for all variables.
Circadian Rhythm Alignment #
Circadian Rhythm Alignment
Concept #
Synchronizing daily activities with the body’s internal clock. Related terms: Light exposure, melatonin secretion, sleep hygiene. Explanation: Proper alignment supports hormone balance, metabolism, and cognition. Example: Encouraging morning sunlight exposure to reset the circadian phase. Practical application: Design schedules that respect natural peaks and troughs. Challenges: Shift work, jet lag, and habitual night‑time screen use.
Coaching Presence #
Coaching Presence
Concept #
The therapist’s ability to be fully attentive, empathetic, and non‑judgmental. Related terms: Active listening, therapeutic alliance, mindfulness. Explanation: Enhances client trust and openness, facilitating behavior change. Example: Maintaining eye contact and reflective statements during a session. Practical application: Practice mindfulness techniques before each coaching encounter. Challenges: Coach burnout, personal distractions, and boundary management.
Complementary Therapies #
Complementary Therapies
Concept #
Non‑conventional interventions that support health. Related terms: Acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage, yoga. Explanation: Often used alongside conventional medicine to address holistic needs. Example: Integrating yoga for stress reduction in a wellness plan. Practical application: Recommend evidence‑based modalities that align with client goals. Challenges: Varying regulatory standards and practitioner qualifications.
Compliance vs #
Commitment
Concept #
Distinguishing short‑term adherence from long‑term dedication. Related terms: Intrinsic motivation, habit formation, relapse. Explanation: Commitment reflects deeper value alignment, leading to sustainable change. Example: A client consistently logs meals (compliance) but lacks belief in the plan (low commitment). Practical application: Use motivational interviewing to foster commitment. Challenges: Measuring commitment; clients may over‑report compliance.
Core Nutrient Sufficiency #
Core Nutrient Sufficiency
Concept #
Ensuring intake of essential vitamins and minerals. Related terms: Micronutrient status, dietary reference intakes (DRIs), deficiency. Explanation: Deficiencies can impair immunity, cognition, and metabolic pathways. Example: Low vitamin D levels contributing to mood swings. Practical application: Recommend food sources or supplementation based on lab results. Challenges: Bioavailability differences and client resistance to supplements.
Cortisol Rhythm #
Cortisol Rhythm
Concept #
Diurnal pattern of cortisol secretion, peaking in the morning. Related terms: HPA axis, stress response, adrenal health. Explanation: Disrupted rhythm can indicate chronic stress or adrenal fatigue. Example: Elevated evening cortisol measured via saliva sample. Practical application: Adjust stress‑management techniques and sleep hygiene. Challenges: Collecting accurate samples; interpreting variations.
Cultural Competence in Coaching #
Cultural Competence in Coaching
Concept #
Ability to respect and integrate diverse cultural beliefs into wellness plans. Related terms: Health disparities, cultural humility, social determinants. Explanation: Enhances relevance and acceptance of interventions. Example: Modifying diet recommendations to honor religious fasting practices. Practical application: Conduct cultural assessments during intake. Challenges: Unconscious bias and limited cultural knowledge.
Detoxification Pathways #
Detoxification Pathways
Concept #
Body’s mechanisms for eliminating toxins, primarily liver and kidneys. Related terms: Phase I/II metabolism, glutathione, oxidative stress. Explanation: Efficient pathways reduce toxic burden and support cellular health. Example: Supporting Phase II conjugation with cruciferous vegetables. Practical application: Incorporate foods rich in methyl donors and antioxidants. Challenges: Over‑reliance on “detox” products lacking scientific support.
Digestive Enzyme Support #
Digestive Enzyme Support
Concept #
Supplementation or dietary strategies to enhance nutrient breakdown. Related terms: Lactase, protease, pancreatic insufficiency, gut health. Explanation: Adequate enzymes improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. Example: Adding bromelain for protein digestion in a client with bloating. Practical application: Assess symptoms and prescribe targeted enzyme blends. Challenges: Identifying specific deficits; ensuring client adherence.
Earliest Intervention Window #
Earliest Intervention Window
Concept #
The period when lifestyle changes have maximal impact on disease trajectory. Related terms: Primary prevention, early detection, pre‑symptomatic phase. Explanation: Early action can reverse or halt progression of metabolic dysfunction. Example: Implementing a low‑glycemic diet in a pre‑diabetic client. Practical application: Screen for risk factors and intervene promptly. Challenges: Client perception of “not sick yet” leading to low urgency.
Ecological Lifestyle Design #
Ecological Lifestyle Design
Concept #
Structuring daily habits to align with environmental sustainability. Related terms: Plant‑based diet, active transport, carbon footprint. Explanation: Supports both personal health and planetary well‑being. Example: Encouraging bike commuting to increase physical activity. Practical application: Integrate eco‑friendly choices into wellness plans. Challenges: Accessibility, safety concerns, and client readiness.
Energy Balance Equation #
Energy Balance Equation
Concept #
Relationship between calories consumed and expended. Related terms: Basal metabolic rate (BMR), thermic effect of food, physical activity level. Explanation: Positive balance leads to weight gain; negative balance promotes loss. Example: Calculating a client’s daily calorie deficit for fat loss. Practical application: Use tracking tools to monitor intake and activity. Challenges: Under‑reporting of food intake; over‑estimation of activity.
Epigenetic Modulation #
Epigenetic Modulation
Concept #
Influence of lifestyle on gene expression without altering DNA sequence. Related terms: DNA methylation, histone acetylation, nutrigenomics. Explanation: Diet, stress, and environment can up‑ or down‑regulate health‑related genes. Example: High‑fat diet increasing expression of inflammatory genes. Practical application: Recommend foods rich in methyl donors to support favorable epigenetic changes. Challenges: Translating complex science into actionable advice.
Evidence‑Based Coaching #
Evidence‑Based Coaching
Concept #
Practice grounded in peer‑reviewed research and clinical guidelines. Related terms: Systematic reviews, practice guidelines, outcome metrics. Explanation: Ensures interventions have demonstrated efficacy and safety. Example: Using the American College of Sports Medicine guidelines for exercise prescription. Practical application: Continuously update protocols based on latest literature. Challenges: Staying current with rapidly evolving research.
Fatty Acid Profile #
Fatty Acid Profile
Concept #
Assessment of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats in blood. Related terms: Omega‑3 index, LDL particle size, lipid oxidation. Explanation: Imbalances can affect cardiovascular risk and inflammation. Example: Low omega‑3 index linked to higher triglycerides. Practical application: Advise increased fish intake or algae‑derived supplements. Challenges: Variability due to recent meals; need for fasting samples.
Functional Lab Testing #
Functional Lab Testing
Concept #
Specialized diagnostics that evaluate metabolic, hormonal, and microbial status. Related terms: Organic acids, stool microbiome, comprehensive metabolic panel. Explanation: Provides deeper insight than standard labs, guiding personalized interventions. Example: Detecting elevated D‑lactate indicating bacterial overgrowth. Practical application: Order targeted panels based on presenting symptoms. Challenges: Interpretation complexity, cost, and insurance limitations.
Gut Microbiome Diversity #
Gut Microbiome Diversity
Concept #
Variety of microbial species inhabiting the gastrointestinal tract. Related terms: Dysbiosis, short‑chain fatty acids, probiotic, prebiotic. Explanation: Higher diversity is associated with better metabolic and immune health. Example: Low diversity correlating with irritable bowel symptoms. Practical application: Recommend fiber‑rich foods and specific probiotic strains. Challenges: Variability between individuals; limited standardized reference ranges.
Health Literacy #
Health Literacy
Concept #
Ability of individuals to obtain, process, and understand health information. Related terms: Patient education, communication style, empowerment. Explanation: Influences adherence and outcomes of wellness plans. Example: Simplifying nutrition labels for a client with limited health literacy. Practical application: Use plain language, visual aids, and teach‑back methods. Challenges: Overcoming language barriers and cultural misconceptions.
Holistic Assessment #
Holistic Assessment
Concept #
Comprehensive evaluation encompassing physical, mental, emotional, and social domains. Related terms: Biopsychosocial model, intake questionnaire, wellness inventory. Explanation: Captures the full context of a client’s health. Example: Including stress level scales alongside blood pressure measurements. Practical application: Develop an integrated plan addressing all identified domains. Challenges: Time constraints; ensuring thoroughness without overwhelming the client.
Hormonal Balance #
Hormonal Balance
Concept #
Equilibrium among endocrine hormones influencing metabolism, mood, and reproduction. Related terms: Thyroid function, sex hormones, adrenal health, insulin sensitivity. Explanation: Dysregulation can manifest as fatigue, weight changes, or mood swings. Example: Low free T3 contributing to sluggish metabolism. Practical application: Adjust macronutrient ratios and stress management to support hormone homeostasis. Challenges: Interpreting overlapping symptoms; need for repeat testing.
Hydration Status #
Hydration Status
Concept #
Body’s water balance affecting cellular function and performance. Related terms: Osmolality, electrolyte balance, urine specific gravity. Explanation: Dehydration impairs cognition, thermoregulation, and digestion. Example: Dark urine indicating inadequate fluid intake. Practical application: Establish individualized water intake goals considering activity and climate. Challenges: Client forgetfulness; over‑reliance on thirst cues.
Insulin Sensitivity Index #
Insulin Sensitivity Index
Concept #
Metric indicating how effectively cells respond to insulin. Related terms: HOMA‑IR, glucose tolerance, metabolic flexibility. Explanation: Higher sensitivity reduces risk of type 2 diabetes and supports weight management. Example: Elevated HOMA‑IR in a client with central obesity. Practical application: Incorporate low‑glycemic foods and interval training to improve sensitivity. Challenges: Laboratory access; variability due to acute stress.
Lifestyle Medicine Principles #
Lifestyle Medicine Principles
Concept #
Core tenets guiding health promotion through behavior change. Related terms: Tobacco cessation, physical activity, nutrition, stress reduction. Explanation: Evidence‑based framework for preventing and treating chronic disease. Example: Applying the six pillars of lifestyle medicine in a comprehensive plan. Practical application: Structure coaching sessions around each pillar. Challenges: Integrating multiple pillars without overwhelming the client.
Macronutrient Cycling #
Macronutrient Cycling
Concept #
Alternating the proportion of carbs, fats, and proteins across days or meals. Related terms: Periodized nutrition, carb‑backloading, fat adaptation. Explanation: Can optimize performance, metabolic flexibility, and adherence. Example: Higher carbohydrate days on training days, low‑carb days on rest days. Practical application: Design a weekly macronutrient schedule aligned with client’s activity pattern. Challenges: Complexity of tracking; client confusion.
Mindful Eating #
Mindful Eating
Concept #
Paying full attention to the experience of eating, without distraction. Related terms: Satiety cues, intuitive eating, sensory awareness. Explanation: Enhances digestion, reduces overeating, and improves relationship with food. Example: Encouraging a client to chew each bite 20 times. Practical application: Practice guided eating exercises during coaching. Challenges: Habitual multitasking; cultural differences in meal practices.
Motivational Interviewing (MI) #
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Concept #
Collaborative conversation style that strengthens personal motivation for change. Related terms: Open‑ended questions, reflective listening, change talk. Explanation: Helps clients resolve ambivalence and articulate goals. Example: Using a “decisional balance” worksheet to explore pros and cons of exercise. Practical application: Embed MI techniques in every client interaction. Challenges: Requires skill development; risk of leading questions.
Nutrient Timing #
Nutrient Timing
Concept #
Strategic scheduling of nutrient intake to align with physiological needs. Related terms: Pre‑workout fueling, post‑exercise recovery, circadian nutrition. Explanation: Optimizes performance, muscle repair, and metabolic outcomes. Example: Consuming protein within 30 minutes after resistance training. Practical application: Create individualized timing plans based on client’s schedule. Challenges: Client adherence to timing windows; lifestyle constraints.
Oxidative Stress Markers #
Oxidative Stress Markers
Concept #
Biomarkers indicating imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. Related terms: Malondialdehyde (MDA), 8‑OHdG, total antioxidant capacity. Explanation: Elevated markers suggest cellular damage and disease risk. Example: High MDA levels in a client with chronic inflammation. Practical application: Recommend antioxidant‑rich foods and lifestyle modifications. Challenges: Laboratory variability; interpreting values in isolation.
Personalized Nutrition #
Personalized Nutrition
Concept #
Tailoring dietary recommendations to individual genetics, microbiome, and preferences. Related terms: Nutrigenomics, phenotypic assessment, dietary phenotyping. Explanation: Increases relevance and efficacy of interventions. Example: Advising a client with a MTHFR polymorphism to increase folate intake. Practical application: Use questionnaires and lab data to customize meal plans. Challenges: Complexity of data integration; avoiding over‑personalization.
Physical Activity Prescription #
Physical Activity Prescription
Concept #
Structured plan outlining type, intensity, frequency, and duration of exercise. Related terms: FITT principle, aerobic vs. Anaerobic, progression. Explanation: Provides clear guidance for safe and effective movement. Example: 30 Minutes of moderate‑intensity brisk walking five days per week. Practical application: Use heart rate zones or perceived exertion scales to monitor intensity. Challenges: Client injuries, time constraints, and motivation fluctuations.
Plate Method #
Plate Method
Concept #
Visual guide for constructing balanced meals using a plate divided into sections. Related terms: Portion control, dietary guidelines, visual cues. Explanation: Simplifies nutrient distribution without counting calories. Example: Half the plate vegetables, quarter protein, quarter whole grains. Practical application: Teach clients to use the plate method at home and restaurants. Challenges: Cultural food variations; limited applicability for specialized diets.
Polyphenol Intake #
Polyphenol Intake
Concept #
Consumption of plant compounds with antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory properties. Related terms: Flavonoids, resveratrol, catechins. Explanation: Supports vascular health, gut microbiota, and cellular resilience. Example: Adding berries and green tea to a client’s daily routine. Practical application: Track polyphenol-rich foods in nutrition logs. Challenges: Bioavailability differences; client taste preferences.
Prebiotic Fiber #
Prebiotic Fiber
Concept #
Non‑digestible carbohydrates that stimulate growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Related terms: Inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), resistant starch. Explanation: Enhances microbiome diversity and short‑chain fatty acid production. Example: Incorporating chicory root into smoothies for increased inulin intake. Practical application: Recommend incremental increases to avoid gas. Challenges: Gastrointestinal tolerance; accurate dosing.
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) #
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI)
Concept #
Study of interactions among psychological processes, the nervous system, and immune function. Related terms: Stress hormones, cytokine signaling, mind‑body health. Explanation: Chronic stress can dysregulate immunity, leading to disease susceptibility. Example: Elevated IL‑6 in a client experiencing prolonged anxiety. Practical application: Integrate stress‑reduction techniques to bolster immune health. Challenges: Measuring PNI biomarkers; translating findings into practical steps.
Quality of Life (QoL) Metrics #
Quality of Life (QoL) Metrics
Concept #
Standardized tools measuring physical, emotional, and social well‑being. Related terms: SF‑36, WHO‑5, patient‑reported outcome measures. Explanation: Provides insight into the impact of interventions beyond clinical markers. Example: Improvement in QoL scores after implementing a holistic wellness plan. Practical application: Administer QoL surveys at baseline and follow‑up. Challenges: Subjectivity; cultural differences affecting responses.
Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) #
Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)
Concept #
Chemically reactive molecules containing oxygen, produced during metabolism. Related terms: Free radicals, oxidative damage, antioxidant defense. Explanation: Low levels act as signaling molecules; excess leads to cellular injury. Example: High-intensity exercise temporarily increases ROS production. Practical application: Balance training intensity with recovery and antioxidant intake. Challenges: Overemphasis on antioxidant supplementation that may blunt adaptive responses.
Rebound Hyperphagia #
Rebound Hyperphagia
Concept #
Excessive eating that follows a period of restriction or fasting. Related terms: Diet cycling, binge eating, metabolic adaptation. Explanation: Body’s compensatory drive to restore energy stores. Example: Client overindulging after a weekend fast. Practical application: Implement gradual re‑feeding strategies and mindful eating. Challenges: Managing client expectations; addressing underlying emotional triggers.
Recovery Modalities #
Recovery Modalities
Concept #
Strategies to facilitate physiological and psychological restoration post‑exercise. Related terms: Active recovery, sleep hygiene, compression therapy, foam rolling. Explanation: Enhances performance, reduces injury risk, and supports adaptation. Example: Using a 10‑minute low‑intensity bike ride after strength training. Practical application: Schedule recovery sessions within the weekly plan. Challenges: Client neglect of recovery; misconceptions about “no pain, no gain.”
Risk Stratification #
Risk Stratification
Concept #
Categorizing clients based on likelihood of adverse health outcomes. Related terms: Screening tools, predictive modeling, priority setting. Explanation: Guides allocation of resources and intensity of interventions. Example: Assigning high‑risk status to a client with family history of heart disease and elevated LDL. Practical application: Tailor frequency of follow‑up and monitoring accordingly. Challenges: Over‑ or under‑estimation of risk due to incomplete data.
Sarcopenia Prevention #
Sarcopenia Prevention
Concept #
Strategies to maintain or increase muscle mass with aging. Related terms: Resistance training, protein timing, anabolic signaling. Explanation: Preserves functional capacity, metabolic rate, and bone health. Example: Scheduling twice‑weekly strength sessions for a 60‑year‑old client. Practical application: Recommend 1.2–1.6 G protein/kg body weight daily. Challenges: Joint limitations; client motivation for resistance work.
Sleep Architecture #
Sleep Architecture
Concept #
The cyclical pattern of REM and non‑REM stages during sleep. Related terms: Sleep latency, sleep efficiency, sleep stages. Explanation: Disrupted architecture impairs memory consolidation and hormonal balance. Example: Reduced deep sleep in a client with frequent nighttime awakenings. Practical application: Advise sleep ritual, screen time reduction, and consistent bedtime. Challenges: Insomnia, shift work, and environmental noise.
Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) #
Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)
Concept #
Non‑medical factors influencing health outcomes. Related terms: Socioeconomic status, education, access to care, housing stability. Explanation: Shapes health behaviors and access to resources. Example: Limited access to fresh produce affecting diet quality. Practical application: Connect clients with community resources and food assistance programs. Challenges: Identifying barriers; systemic limitations beyond coach’s control.
Stress Resilience Training #
Stress Resilience Training
Concept #
Programs designed to enhance coping skills and adaptive responses to stress. Related terms: Resilience, adaptive coping, neuroplasticity. Explanation: Builds psychological fortitude, reducing the impact of stressors. Example: Teaching diaphragmatic breathing and progressive muscle relaxation. Practical application: Incorporate brief resilience exercises into each session. Challenges: Client skepticism; measuring resilience objectively.
Symptom Tracking Journal #
Symptom Tracking Journal
Concept #
Structured log where clients record physical and emotional symptoms daily. Related terms: Health diary, longitudinal monitoring, trend analysis. Explanation: Enables identification of patterns and triggers. Example: Noting increased anxiety after late‑night caffeine consumption. Practical application: Review journal entries to adjust interventions. Challenges: Consistency of entries; data overload.
Thyroid Function Panel #
Thyroid Function Panel
Concept #
Laboratory assessment of thyroid hormone levels. Related terms: TSH, free T4, free T3, reverse T3. Explanation: Determines hypo‑ or hyper‑thyroid status impacting metabolism and energy. Example: Low free T3 contributing to persistent fatigue. Practical application: Adjust macronutrient distribution and stress management based on results. Challenges: Interpreting borderline values; interference from medications.
Time‑Restricted Eating (TRE) #
Time‑Restricted Eating (TRE)
Concept #
Limiting daily food intake to a specific window, typically 8–12 hours. Related terms: Intermittent fasting, circadian alignment, feeding window. Explanation: May improve insulin sensitivity, weight management, and cellular repair. Example: Client eats meals between 9 am and 5 pm. Practical application: Design a feasible eating window respecting client’s schedule. Challenges: Hunger during fasting periods; compatibility with social meals.
Total Lifestyle Score #
Total Lifestyle Score
Concept #
Composite metric aggregating multiple health behaviors into a single rating. Related terms: Lifestyle index, health behavior questionnaire, wellness index. Explanation: Provides a quick snapshot of overall health habits. Example: Scoring 75 % on a 100‑point lifestyle assessment. Practical application: Use score to set incremental improvement targets. Challenges: Weighting of components; ensuring validity.
Triglyceride‑Glucose (TyG) Index #
Triglyceride‑Glucose (TyG) Index
Concept #
Surrogate marker for insulin resistance calculated from fasting triglycerides and glucose. Related terms: Metabolic syndrome, HOMA‑IR, cardiometabolic risk. Explanation: Higher values indicate greater insulin resistance. Example: Elevated TyG in a client with central obesity. Practical application: Monitor changes as part of metabolic health tracking. Challenges: Requires accurate fasting labs; not standardized across labs.
Vitamin D Status #
Vitamin D Status
Concept #
Measurement of serum 25‑hydroxyvitamin D to assess adequacy. Related terms: Bone health, immune modulation, sunlight exposure. Explanation: Deficiency linked to mood disorders, cardiovascular disease, and immune dysfunction. Example: Serum level of 18 ng/mL indicating deficiency. Practical application: Recommend safe sun exposure and supplementation. Challenges: Seasonal variation; variability in assay methods.
Weight Management Strategies #
Weight Management Strategies
Concept #
Evidence‑based approaches to achieve and maintain healthy body weight. Related terms: Calorie deficit, behavior modification, body composition focus. Explanation: Combines nutrition, activity, mindset, and environment. Example: Integrating mindful eating with progressive walking program. Practical application: Set SMART goals and monitor progress weekly. Challenges: Plateaus, yo‑yo dieting, psychological factors.
Whole‑Food Supplements #
Whole‑Food Supplements
Concept #
Nutrient products derived from minimally processed foods, retaining natural matrix. Related terms: Food‑based supplements, bioavailability, synergistic nutrients. Explanation: May provide superior absorption compared to isolated compounds. Example: Turmeric powder capsules containing the whole rhizome. Practical application: Recommend when dietary intake is insufficient. Challenges: Quality control, labeling accuracy, cost.
Yield Optimization in Coaching #
Yield Optimization in Coaching
Concept #
Maximizing client outcomes per unit of time and effort. Related terms: Efficiency, outcome metrics, session planning. Explanation: Focuses on high‑impact interventions and measurable progress. Example: Prioritizing sleep hygiene in a client with poor energy before tackling complex diet changes. Practical application: Use data‑driven decision trees to allocate coaching resources. Challenges: Balancing thoroughness with efficiency; avoiding oversimplification.