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Term
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Description
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| HDL (high-density lipoprotein) |
Considered the "good" cholesterol, HDL is actually a carrier molecule that transports cholesterol in the blood. HDL is responsible for returning cholesterol and triglycerides (fats) from the cells and the vessels to the liver. A high HDL blood level is associated with a lowered risk of heart attack. |
| HDL/LDL ratio |
The ratio of "good" (HDL) to "bad" (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood. |
| Heart attack |
Also called myocardial infarction, it is caused by obstruction in the coronary artery. |
| Heart disease |
Also known as coronary artery disease, this is any one of the abnormal conditions that may clog the heart’s arteries with a buildup of plaque from cholesterol, calcium or mechanical trauma. The buildup produces various pathologic effects, especially reduced flow of oxygen and nutrients to the myocardium (the lining of the heart). Coronary atherosclerosis, one type of Coronary artery disease, is the leading cause of death in the Western world. |
| Heart failure |
A general term used to define the disorder in which the heart loses its ability to pump blood efficiently. Heart failure may affect either the right side, left side or both sides of the heart. As pumping action is lost, blood may back up into other areas of the body, including the liver, gastrointestinal tract, extremities or lungs. Shortness of breath and swelling of the ankles are two common symptoms of congestive heart failure. |
| Heart fluttering |
See Palpitations. |
| Heart jumping |
See Palpitations. |
| Heart pounding |
See Palpitations. |
| Heart racing |
See Palpitations. |
| Heart skipping |
See Palpitations. |
| Hepatitis |
An inflammatory condition of the liver, characterized by jaundice, elevated liver enzymes, anorexia, abdominal and gastric discomfort, clay-colored stools and tea-colored urine. Bacterial or viral infection, parasitic infestation, alcohol, drugs, toxins or the transfusion of incompatible blood may cause hepatitis. |
| Herbs |
The leaves, bark, berries, roots, gums, seeds, stems and flowers of plants. Culinary herbs add flavor to foods; medicinal herbs possess healing properties. |
| High blood pressure |
Also known as hypertension, high-or elevated-blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart attack or stroke. blood pressure represents the resistance produced each time the heart beats and sends blood flowing through the arteries. The top reading of the pressure exerted by this contraction is called systolic pressure. Between beats, the heart relaxes and blood pressure drops. The lowest reading is referred to as diastolic pressure. It is estimated that 24 percent of all American adults (about 43 million people) have high blood pressure. |
| High blood sugar |
See Hyperglycemia. |
| Hirsutism |
A condition in women in which there is excess facial and body hair in a masculine distribution pattern, as a result of heredity, hormone dysfunction or medication. |
| Histamine |
A chemical released by the body in response to an allergic reaction, usually associated with dehydration. |
| Homocysteine |
An amino acid that promotes free radical oxidation and premature vascular disease. It responds to vitanutrient supplementation such as B6, B12 and Folic acid. |
| Hormonal cycles |
A complex monthly balance of hormones that affect menstruation and ovulation. The hypothalamus, pituitary gland, estrogen progesterone, lutenizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone are all part of the hormonal cycle. |
| Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) |
A treatment for menopause in which a form of estrogen or an estrogen-progesterone combination is prescribed to alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, irritability and changes in mood and sleeping patterns. The pros and cons of therapy are generally well known: decreased risk of both cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis versus a potential increased risk of breast cancer, although this remains controversial. Other potential risks associated with HRT include an increased incidence of blood clots, an exacerbation of pre-existing liver disease, and for some women, an increased risk of endometrial cancer. Some users can also develop hypertension. |
| Hydrated |
Having adequate amounts of water in the body. Drinking alkaline ionized water is the best way to stay hydrated. |
| Hydrocortisone |
See Cortisol. |
| Hydrogenated oil |
A man-made product (unsaturated fat to which a hydrogen molecule is added) causing an oil to become more solid at room temperature. Considered a saturated fat, it is used by the food industry to prolong the shelf life of many processed foods, such as sliced bread, margarine, vegetable shortenings, soups, chips, crackers, cookies, pastries and even some pasta and rice mixes. |
| Hyperglycemia |
A condition in which there is a greater than normal amount of glucose in the blood, and which can lead to serious conditions such as Type II Diabetes. |
| Hyperinsulinemia |
A condition in which the pancreas releases excess amounts of insulin into the blood, usually in an effort to control high blood sugar. It may be a precursor to diabetes, is an independent risk factor for heart disease and is associated with many medical conditions such as syndrome X and high blood pressure. Characteristics of hyperinsulinemia include sodium retention, thickening of artery walls causing constriction and certain cancers. |
| Hyperinsulinism |
The body's reaction to an excessive amount of carbohydrate consumption, which raises blood sugar and, in turn, produces high insulin levels. |
| Hypertension |
See High blood pressure. |
| Hyperthyroidism |
A condition characterized by hyperactivity of the thyroid gland in which the gland is usually oversized and over-produces thyroid hormone, creating an accelerated metabolism. Symptoms include nervousness, tremor, hunger, palpitations, weight loss, fatigue and protruding eyes. |
| Hypoglycemia |
A condition in which there is a lower than normal amount of glucose in the blood. This can happen when glucose is used up too rapidly, glucose is released into the bloodstream more slowly than is needed by the body or when excessive insulin (a hormone secreted by the pancreas in response to increased glucose levels in the blood) is released into the bloodstream. Hypoglycemia is relatively common in pre-diabetes. |
| Hypothyroidism |
A condition of decreased activity of the thyroid gland, which may cause a variety of symptoms. The body's normal rate of functioning slows, causing mental and physical sluggishness, lethargy, water retention, constipation, arthritis, dry skin, brittle nails and loss of eyelashes and eyebrows. |