GLOSSARY

Structure–Function Claim A statement about support for normal body structure or function, which does not automatically establish disease treatment or athletic benefit.

For example, a high-protein claim does not show that the product supplies an appropriate whole recovery meal. Review the actual serving, carbohydrate, ingredients and role in the diet. A permitted label claim should not be expanded into a promise of superior performance for every athlete.

Food-label reference values support product comparison within the applicable labeling system. A percentage refers to a stated amount of food and a reference value; it is not a measurement of the eater's personal requirement. Check serving size, servings consumed and whether the panel is per serving or per mass. Label rules and permitted claims differ between jurisdictions. An athlete may need more carbohydrate or energy than the generic reference, while a large micronutrient percentage does not automatically improve performance or justify additional supplements.

A guideline translates evidence into recommendations for a defined population and setting; a consensus statement records an agreed expert interpretation. Neither format removes the need to inspect evidence quality, conflicts of interest, publication date and applicability. A strong-sounding position is not automatically supported by strong trials. Distinguish established practice from a research hypothesis, and revise advice when better evidence emerges. For athletes, explain which part is broadly supported and which is an individualized practical choice rather than presenting every option as mandatory.

Food composition analysis depends on matching the reported food to an appropriate database entry. Variety, brand, fortification, preparation and raw-versus-cooked weight can change the match. Missing data do not necessarily mean that a nutrient is absent. Recipes require ingredient amounts, edible yields and suitable retention assumptions. Record the database and version when comparability matters. A detailed software output remains an estimate; checking the food match and units can be more valuable than reporting many decimal places from uncertain intake data.