GLOSSARY

MIND Diet combines selected Mediterranean and DASH features for a brain-health research purpose; it is not a guaranteed dementia-prevention treatment.

Cardioprotective eating commonly emphasizes vegetables, fruit, legumes, whole grains, nuts and suitable unsaturated-fat sources while improving the quality of fat and reducing excessive sodium. Benefits depend on what replaces the foods reduced. Clinical lipid and blood-pressure goals require broader assessment, including medication when indicated. Athletes should adapt portions and carbohydrate supply to training rather than assuming a heart-supporting pattern must be low in energy, extremely restrictive or unsuitable for fueling exercise.

A dietary pattern can improve health through several interacting food choices rather than a single named ingredient. Mediterranean, DASH and other regional patterns share some features but are not identical prescriptions. Specify the foods and substitutions actually used, and adapt them to culture and training. A pattern's association with a long-term outcome does not mean every branded version produces that outcome or that it automatically supplies the energy required by a competitive athlete.

Lipid management distinguishes LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, non-HDL cholesterol and other relevant markers rather than treating every abnormal result as the same problem. Dietary fat quality, fiber-containing foods, alcohol, energy balance and underlying conditions can affect different components. Medication may also be indicated according to overall cardiovascular risk. A high HDL value does not cancel elevated atherogenic risk, and changing one laboratory number does not by itself demonstrate improved clinical outcomes or superior athletic performance.