Acacia – an astringent gum made from the acacia tree. It functions as a dietary fiber and can reduce cholesterol levels and increase weight loss. When ingested, it makes you feel full, so you might stop eating sooner than usual.

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Acerola (Malpighia Emarginata) – native to Central America, South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean; it is a small tree or shrub whose fruit is red and like a cherry when it is ripe. It contains a rich source of Vitamin C, as well as beta carotene, thiamine (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Niacin (Vitamin B3), Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), Pyroxidine (Vitamin B6) and Folic Acid (Vitamin B9). In addition to being used as a vitamin B and C supplement, it is sometimes used to treat diarrhea and the common cold.

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Acesulfame Potassium – also known as Acesulfame K, is an artificial (synthetic) calorie-free sweetener with a zero glycemic index and about 200 times sweeter than sugar. Although it is deemed "generally recognized as safe (GRAS)" by the FDA, research is finding it can have adverse health effects, including weight gain, altering gut health, and increased risk for cancer, as it contains Methylene Chloride, a known carcinogen. It is also marketed under the commercial name Sunett, a brand owned by Nutrinova (formerly Celanese Food Ingredients). See the definition for "sweeteners" for further information and comparison to other options.

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Acidity Regulator – a food additive that alters or maintains a product's proper pH (acidity or basicity). They can also impart a sour taste and act as a preservative, stabilizer, emulsifier, or to help retain color. They are often organic (natural) acids such as ascorbic, citric, malic, and acetic. Maintaining the proper pH helps to ensure food safety and a longer shelf life.

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Adaptogen – plants, herbs, roots, mushrooms, or other substances that help your body respond to stress, anxiety, and fatigue and restore balance. They can be added to beverages or taken as an herbal supplement in capsule form. Pregnant or nursing women, people with high or low blood pressure, diabetes, stomach ulcers, autoimmune disorders, or who are about to undergo surgery should consult with a licensed physician before using them.

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Additive – chemicals that keep foods fresh or enhance their color, flavor, shelf life, or texture. Consuming small amounts of additives may be safe, but the health risks increase if you rely heavily on processed foods. A diet rich in processed foods is linked to chronic diseases such as obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, and cancer.

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Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) – the energy source for use and storage at the cellular level. The structure of ATP is a nucleoside triphosphate consisting of a nitrogenous base, a ribose sugar, and three serially bonded phosphate groups. ATP is commonly referred to as the cell's energy currency, as it provides readily releasable energy in the bond between the second and third phosphate groups. In addition to providing energy, the breakdown of ATP through hydrolysis serves a broad range of cell functions, including signaling and DNA/RNA synthesis.

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Agave (Asparagaceae) – a succulent plant native to Mexico and the Caribbean, whose nectar is used as a natural sweetener. Contrary to popular belief, any health benefits inherent in agave are likely destroyed during the refining and processing of the plant when making the syrup. It is about 1-1/2 times sweeter than sugar and has a low glycemic index. It contains high amounts of fructose, which can create potential issues to your metabolism, including insulin resistance, heart disease, diabetes, and liver disease (the liver is the only organ that can metabolize fructose). See the definition for "sweeteners" for further information and comparison to other options.

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Alkalete – a pH supplement made by a company called Yoli, which may promote a balanced pH level, burning of fat, removal of acidic waste, energization of the body, and muscle recovery; however, the FDA has not validated these claims.

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Allergens (Food-Related) – ingredients that can cause an adverse allergenic reaction when consumed. The top nine foods that can cause food allergies are milk, eggs, fish (e.g., bass, flounder, cod), shellfish (e.g., crab, lobster, shrimp), tree nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pecans, etc., including coconut), peanuts, wheat, sesame, and soybeans. Symptoms may include hives, skin discoloration or rash, tingling or itchy sensation in the mouth, swelling of the face, tongue, lips, or throat, cramps, vomiting or diarrhea, coughing, wheezing, dizziness, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness. These symptoms can appear immediately or take hours to appear. If you have a known food allergen, you should strictly avoid the ingredient(s) that cause the reaction to prevent serious adverse health effects. Food allergies can, at times, be life-threatening. Food and beverage products must be disclosed on their label if they contain items known to be the source of food allergens. In severe cases, because proximity to ingredients has also caused similar symptoms, manufacturers must disclose if their product is manufactured in a facility that might contain food allergens.

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Allulose – a sugar that naturally occurs in fruits like figs and raisins; however, allulose that is used commercially has been created artificially by food scientists. It is about 70% of the sweetness of sugar. While allulose is considered "generally recognized as safe (GRAS)" by the FDA, tastes quite a bit like natural sugar, and has a zero glycemic index (so it does not affect blood glucose or insulin levels), it can cause stomach discomfort, including gassiness, bloating, and nausea when consumed in larger quantities. See the definition for "sweeteners" for further information and comparison to other options.

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Alpha-Amylase – an enzyme widely produced by all living organisms that break down starch molecules in the digestive system. Additional health benefits may include support for the immune system, management of inflammatory conditions, and support for aging. However, these claims have yet to be validated by the FDA.

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Alpa Ketoglutaric Acid – a natural compound that works in many bodily pathways, including healing wounds and building muscle, particularly after surgery or trauma. It can be used to treat kidney disease, for aging and aging skin, to improve athletic performance, and to treat liver disease. However, these claims have yet to be validated by the FDA.

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Alpha Lipoic Acid – an antioxidant made naturally in the body that breaks down carbohydrates into usable energy. It has also been shown to help lower blood sugar levels and help with diabetes and the associated pain, burning, itching, tingling, and numbness in the arms and legs from nerve damage. However, these claims have yet to be validated by the FDA.

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Angelica Root Extract (Angelica Archangelica) – very aromatic and herbaceous, is used in teas, candy, and liquors. It has a long history of use in traditional Western herbalism, often employed in various wellness-supporting applications. Angelica is compatible with and supports several systems throughout the body, including the immune, respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. The plant appears to be several poisonous plant species, including water hemlock, so extreme caution must be taken if wild harvesting.

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Antioxidants – compounds that protect your cells against free radicals (unstable and highly reactive waste substances), which may play a role in heart disease and cancer. If the body cannot process and remove free radicals efficiently, oxidative stress can result. This can harm cells and body functions. Antioxidants are found in many plant-based foods. Foods exceptionally high in antioxidants are often called “superfoods” or “functional foods.” Nuts and seeds, green and black teas, dark chocolate, pomegranates, goji berries, papaya, blueberries, apples, oranges, watermelon, tomatoes, leafy vegetables, broccoli, spinach, carrots, peas, eggplants, bell peppers, legumes, and lentils are all excellent sources of antioxidants.

 

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) – made with crushed, fermented apples, yeast, and sugar- has been shown to help reduce blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, and aid in weight loss. However, research is limited, and the FDA must still validate these claims. Because it is high in acid, it could irritate your esophagus if you drink too much. It can also break down tooth enamel. The vinegar can also interact with some drugs, such as diuretics, laxatives, and insulin. Always ask your physician if it is safe to use ACV with your current medications before consuming it.

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Amino Acids – molecules that combine to form proteins. Amino acids and proteins are the building blocks of life. When proteins are digested or broken down, amino acids are the result. The human body then uses amino acids to make proteins to help the body break down food, grow, repair damaged tissue, and perform other body functions. They are classified into three groups - essential, non-essential, and conditionally essential. The nine essential amino acids are histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. Nonessential amino acids include alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, proline, serine, and tyrosine. Conditionally essential amino acids include arginine, cysteine, glutamine, tyrosine, glycine, proline, and serine.

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Aquamin – a natural mineral source produced from calcareous marine algae rich in calcium. The seaweed is harvested from the North Atlantic seabed. It is certified Kosher, Halal, allergen-free, GMO-free, and suitable for vegans and vegetarians. 

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Arginine (L-Arginine) – an amino acid that helps the body build protein, heal wounds, maintain immune function, promote heart health, and improve circulation. However, these claims have yet to be validated by the FDA. It can be found in fish, red meat, poultry, soy, whole grains, beans, and dairy products. Possible side effects include abdominal pain and bloating, diarrhea, and gout. It may also cause a worsening of breathing in people with asthma.

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Artificial Colors – although artificial colors are prevalent (15 million pounds of artificial food dyes are in our food supply yearly), they contain various chemicals commonly derived from petroleum products. They have been linked to many health concerns, including allergic reactions, behavioral changes, hyperactivity, attention deficit disorder, and even cancer. Seven artificial colors are approved for use in the U.S., including FD&C Blue No. 1, Blue No. 2, Green No. 3, Red No. 3, Red No. 40, and Yellow No. % and Yellow No. 6. Canada, Europe, and other parts of the world maintain different and frequently higher standards and labeling requirements for artificial colors.

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Artificial Flavors – as defined by the FDA - any substance, the function of which is to impart flavor, which is not derived from a spice, fruit or fruit juice, vegetable or vegetable juice, edible yeast, herb, bark, bud, root, leaf or similar plant material, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, or fermentation products thereof. They are non-natural substances produced in a laboratory that are used to create flavors in foods, beverages, or medications. They are used frequently by beverage manufacturers because they are often much less expensive than natural flavors, are often more stable, and allow flavors to be intensified. In some cases, food additives, including artificial flavors, cause potential health risks, such as learning disabilities, hyperkinesis, kidney damage, tumors, skin rashes, migraine, asthma, sleep disturbance, and gastric upset.

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Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) – a water-soluble vitamin (meaning that your body does not store it) is naturally present in some foods, added to others, and available as a dietary supplement. Unlike most animals, humans cannot synthesize vitamin C independently, an essential dietary component. It is needed by the body to help wounds heal, enhance iron absorption from plant foods, and support the immune system. It is also an antioxidant. It also has been shown to benefit heart health (hardening of the arteries, heart attack, and stroke) and lower the risk of high blood pressure. However, these claims have yet to be validated by the FDA. Citrus fruits, berries, leafy greens, peppers, potatoes, broccoli, and tomatoes are good sources of Vitamin C. You will get the most vitamin C if you eat fruits and vegetables raw or lightly cooked. The Recommended Daily Amount for Vitamin C is 75 milligrams (mg) daily for women and 90 mg for men.

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Ashwagandha – an evergreen shrub that grows in Asia and Africa. It is often considered an adaptogen and commonly used for stress. It also contains chemicals that might help calm the brain, reduce swelling, lower blood pressure, and alter the immune system. However, these claims have yet to be validated by the FDA. Large doses of ashwagandha might cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. If you are pregnant or nursing, seeking professional advice from your doctor before consuming it is recommended. Please do not take it before having surgery (within two weeks), as it can slow down the central nervous system and interact with anesthesia.

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Aspartame – is an artificial (chemical) low-calorie sweetener consisting of two amino acids — aspartic acid and phenylalanine. It has been widely used in various food and beverage products since the 1980s, including diet drinks, chewing gum, gelatin, ice cream, dairy products such as yogurt, breakfast cereal, toothpaste, and medications such as cough drops and chewable vitamins. It is 200 times sweeter than sugar and has a zero glycemic index. It is often marketed under Nutrasweet, Equal, and Sugar Twin. Some potential side effects include long-term obesity, diabetes, and liver/renal issues when consumed in large quantities for extended periods. See the definition for "sweeteners" for further information and comparison to other options.

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Aspartic Acid (L-Aspartic Acid) – an amino acid that is used in the synthesis of proteins and regulation of hormones in both the endocrine system (glands and hormones) and central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). When this occurs, it becomes part of proteins synthesized in the body and is responsible for encouraging the production of antibodies that support the function of the body's immune system. It can be found in foods like spinach, beets, mushrooms, goji and strawberries, fish, nuts and herbs like oregano and peppermint. Although it is commonly promoted to increase exercise performance, it has yet to be studied much in humans for this or any other condition.

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Astragin (Astragalus Root Extract, San-qi Ginseng Root Extract) – a patented, 100% natural compound that increases absorption of vital nutrients and promotes a healthy gut environment. Commercial claims also include supporting increased lean muscle and strength, increased power output and training volume, improved body composition, and boosting higher levels of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). However, these claims have yet to be validated by the FDA.
 

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