Understand the medical, nutritional and scientific terminology associated with GLP-1 medicines, meal replacements, protein, vitamins, minerals and healthy weight management. Browse by category or search instantly to find the information you need.
A UK-focused educational glossary covering GLP-1 medicines, weight management, meal replacements, protein, nutrition, digestion, exercise, vitamins, minerals and healthcare terminology.
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UK review date: 23 July 2026. This glossary is educational and does not replace advice from a GP, pharmacist, registered dietitian or another appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
Prescription GLP-1 medicines should only be used under appropriate medical supervision. Food supplements and meal replacements are not substitutes for prescribed treatment or personalised dietary advice.
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GLP-1 Medicines
Understand the key medicines, hormones and medical terminology associated with GLP-1 therapies, appetite regulation and modern weight management.
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1)
GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone released by the intestine after eating. It plays an important role in appetite regulation, digestion and blood glucose control. Prescription GLP-1 medicines are designed to mimic the action of this hormone and should only be used under medical supervision.
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
A GLP-1 receptor agonist is a prescription medicine that mimics the action of the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone. These medicines are prescribed by appropriately qualified healthcare professionals for specific medical purposes.
Semaglutide
Semaglutide is the active ingredient used in several prescription GLP-1 medicines, including Wegovy® and Ozempic®. It should only be used under the supervision of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Mounjaro®. It acts on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors and should only be prescribed and used under appropriate medical supervision.
Mounjaro®
Mounjaro® is the brand name of a prescription medicine containing tirzepatide. It is not a food, meal replacement or food supplement and should always be used according to professional medical advice.
Wegovy®
Wegovy® is the brand name of a prescription medicine containing semaglutide. It should only be prescribed and used in accordance with the advice of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
Ozempic®
Ozempic® is a prescription medicine containing semaglutide. Questions regarding its use should always be directed to the prescribing clinician or pharmacist.
Liraglutide
Liraglutide is a prescription GLP-1 receptor agonist used for specific licensed medical purposes. It should only be used under appropriate medical supervision.
Dulaglutide
Dulaglutide is a prescription GLP-1 receptor agonist prescribed for specific medical indications. It should only be used according to healthcare professional guidance.
Exenatide
Exenatide is one of the earlier GLP-1 receptor agonist medicines. It is available only on prescription and should always be used according to medical advice.
GIP
GIP (Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide) is a naturally occurring incretin hormone released after eating. It works alongside GLP-1 as part of the body’s normal response to food.
Incretin Hormones
Incretin hormones are naturally produced after eating and help coordinate the body’s normal response to food. GLP-1 and GIP are the two best-known incretin hormones.
Gastric Emptying
Gastric emptying is the natural process by which food moves from the stomach into the small intestine. The speed of gastric emptying varies depending on meal composition and normal digestive function.
Ghrelin
Ghrelin is a naturally occurring hormone often referred to as the hunger hormone because it helps regulate appetite by signalling when the stomach is empty.
Glucagon
Glucagon is a hormone produced by the pancreas that works alongside insulin to help regulate normal blood glucose levels.
Insulin
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps move glucose from the bloodstream into the body’s cells where it can be used for energy.
Blood Glucose
Blood glucose is the amount of glucose circulating in the bloodstream. Several hormones, including insulin, glucagon and GLP-1, contribute to its normal regulation.
Dual Agonist
A dual agonist is a medicine designed to act on two different biological receptors. Tirzepatide is an example of a dual agonist that acts on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors.
Dual Agent / GIP RA
A medication, such as tirzepatide, that acts on two different receptors. It combines a GLP-1 receptor agonist with a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonist to help reduce hunger and improve how the body uses food.
Pre-filled Pen
The only legitimate and authorised format for genuine GLP-1 weight-loss injections in the UK. Products sold as powders in vials that require mixing are unauthorised, illegal to sell, and pose significant health risks.
Injection Site Reaction
Mild irritation, redness, or swelling at the spot where the medication is injected. These are generally temporary and typically resolve without treatment, but should be monitored.
Titration Schedule
The structured process of gradually increasing medication doses (e.g., increasing tirzepatide every 4 weeks). This allows the body to acclimate to the medication’s potency and prevents or minimises gastrointestinal side effects.
Weight Management
Key terms relating to healthy weight management, body composition, calorie balance and sustainable lifestyle change.
Balanced Diet
A balanced diet provides appropriate amounts of protein, carbohydrates, fats, fibre, vitamins and minerals through a varied selection of foods. Healthy eating focuses on overall dietary patterns rather than individual foods.
Body Composition
Body composition describes the proportion of muscle, body fat, bone and body water that make up the body. It provides more information than body weight alone.
Body Fat
Body fat is a normal part of the human body that stores energy, cushions organs and helps regulate body temperature. Healthy weight management usually focuses on improving overall body composition rather than simply reducing body weight.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a calculation based on height and weight that is commonly used as a screening tool. It should always be interpreted alongside other health information.
Calorie
A calorie is a unit used to measure the amount of energy provided by food and drink. UK food labels normally display both kilocalories (kcal) and kilojoules (kJ).
Calorie Deficit
A calorie deficit occurs when the body uses more energy than is consumed over time. This principle underpins weight loss, although nutritional quality remains equally important.
Calorie Surplus
A calorie surplus occurs when more energy is consumed than the body uses. Over time this may contribute to weight gain.
Energy Balance
Energy balance describes the relationship between calories consumed and calories used by the body through normal daily activity and exercise.
Energy Density
Energy density refers to the number of calories contained within a given weight of food. Foods with lower energy density generally provide fewer calories per gram.
Healthy Weight
Healthy weight is an individual concept that should be considered alongside body composition, medical history, physical fitness and advice from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
Lean Body Mass
Lean body mass includes everything in the body except fat, including muscles, bones, organs and body water.
Maintenance Calories
Maintenance calories are the approximate number of calories required to maintain current body weight when energy intake matches energy expenditure.
Metabolism
Metabolism describes the chemical processes that allow the body to produce energy and support normal growth, repair and everyday bodily functions.
NEAT
NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis) describes the calories used during everyday movement such as walking, standing, gardening and household activities.
Nutritional Rebound Control
The proactive planning of nutritional habits and metabolic support to manage structural changes in appetite if an individual transitions away from a calorie-restricted or GLP-1 routine, helping to mitigate sudden, intense weight or hunger regain.
Obesity
Obesity is a complex medical condition involving excess body fat that may increase the likelihood of developing certain health conditions. Assessment should always be individualised.
Overweight
Overweight is a medical term describing body weight above a range generally considered appropriate for health. It should be considered alongside other health measurements.
Portion Control
Portion control means being aware of the amount of food eaten at each meal or snack. Appropriate portion sizes vary between individuals.
Sustainable Weight Management
Sustainable weight management focuses on long-term eating habits, physical activity and lifestyle changes rather than short-term restrictive diets.
Weight Loss
Weight loss describes a reduction in body weight over time. Healthy weight management generally focuses on gradual, sustainable lifestyle changes supported by balanced nutrition.
Non-Scale Victories (NSVs)
Health improvements not shown on bathroom scales, such as increased energy levels, improved sleep, or clothes fitting more comfortably. These are vital for tracking long-term progress.
Weight Loss Plateau
A period during a weight loss journey where progress stalls despite maintaining adherence to diet and activity plans. This is a common and normal part of the process.
Meal Replacements
Meal replacement terminology, balanced nutrition concepts and dietary terms commonly associated with calorie-controlled eating plans and GLP-1 nutrition support.
Meal Replacement
A meal replacement is a food designed to replace one or more meals while providing a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. Meal replacements should be used according to the manufacturer’s guidance and as part of an overall balanced diet.
Complete Meal
A complete meal provides a balance of energy, protein, carbohydrates, fats, fibre and essential micronutrients. Nutritional requirements vary between individuals.
Balanced Nutrition
Balanced nutrition means obtaining appropriate amounts of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals and fibre through a varied dietary pattern.
High Protein
“High protein” is a regulated nutrition claim that may only be used when a product meets the legal conditions defined under UK nutrition claims legislation.
Macronutrients
Macronutrients are the nutrients required in the largest amounts by the body. They include protein, carbohydrates and fats, all of which contribute energy and support normal bodily functions.
Macronutrient Density
The concentration of vital structural macronutrients (like premium protein and essential lipids) relative to total weight or portion volume. Highly valuable for GLP-1 users who can only manage small portions at a time.
Micronutrients
Micronutrients include vitamins and minerals required in small amounts to support normal growth, metabolism and overall health.
Meal Timing
Meal timing refers to when meals and snacks are eaten throughout the day. There is no single meal schedule that is appropriate for everyone.
Serving Size
Serving size is the recommended amount of a product intended to be consumed on one occasion. Nutrition information is commonly displayed per serving and per 100g.
Breakfast
Breakfast is commonly the first meal of the day. A balanced breakfast often includes protein, fibre and a variety of nutrient-rich foods.
Lunch
Lunch is typically the main meal eaten during the middle of the day. Meal timing varies considerably according to lifestyle and personal preference.
Dinner
Dinner is usually the final main meal of the day. A balanced evening meal contributes to overall daily nutritional intake.
Snacking
Snacking describes eating between meals. Choosing foods containing protein or fibre may help support a balanced eating pattern.
Convenience Nutrition
Convenience nutrition describes foods designed to make balanced eating easier when time, travel or lifestyle make preparing meals more challenging.
Food First
“Food first” is a nutritional approach that encourages meeting nutritional requirements primarily through a varied and balanced diet before considering supplementation where appropriate.
Nutrient Density
Nutrient density describes the amount of beneficial nutrients a food provides relative to its calorie content. Nutrient-dense foods provide relatively high levels of nutrients without excessive calories.
Protein & Amino Acids
Protein plays an important role in a balanced diet. This section explains common protein terms, amino acids and muscle-related nutrition concepts often discussed during healthy weight management.
Protein
Protein is one of the three macronutrients and contributes to the growth and maintenance of muscle mass and the maintenance of normal bones. Good dietary sources include dairy products, eggs, fish, meat, beans, lentils and soy foods.
Complete Protein
A complete protein provides all nine essential amino acids required by the body. Dairy products, eggs, fish, meat and soy are examples of complete protein sources.
Amino Acids
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. They are used throughout the body to build and repair tissues and support many normal biological processes.
Essential Amino Acids
Essential amino acids cannot be produced by the body and must be obtained from food. Eating a varied diet containing adequate protein usually provides these nutrients.
Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)
Branched-chain amino acids are leucine, isoleucine and valine. They occur naturally in protein-rich foods and form part of complete dietary proteins.
Leucine
Leucine is an essential amino acid naturally found in foods rich in protein including dairy products, meat, fish and soy.
Isoleucine
Isoleucine is one of the essential amino acids and forms part of the branched-chain amino acid group naturally present in dietary protein.
Valine
Valine is one of the three branched-chain amino acids and occurs naturally in a wide variety of protein-containing foods.
Whey Protein
Whey protein is a complete milk protein naturally containing all nine essential amino acids. It is commonly used in meal replacements and sports nutrition products.
Casein
Casein is the main protein naturally found in milk. It digests more slowly than whey protein and is another complete source of dietary protein.
Plant Protein
Plant protein comes from foods such as beans, lentils, peas, soy, nuts and seeds. Eating a variety of plant protein sources contributes to overall protein intake.
Lean Protein
Lean protein refers to protein-rich foods that are generally lower in fat, including skinless poultry, fish, low-fat dairy products and many plant protein sources.
Muscle Mass
Muscle mass refers to the amount of muscle tissue within the body. Maintaining muscle mass contributes to strength, movement and everyday physical function.
Muscle Maintenance
Muscle maintenance describes preserving muscle tissue through appropriate nutrition and regular physical activity. Dietary protein contributes to the maintenance of muscle mass.
Muscle Protein Synthesis
Muscle protein synthesis is the natural process through which the body repairs and builds muscle proteins following normal daily turnover and physical activity.
Muscle Recovery
Muscle recovery is the period following physical activity during which muscles repair and adapt. Recovery is supported by rest, hydration and balanced nutrition.
Fat-Free Mass
Fat-free mass includes muscles, bones, organs and body water. It is commonly discussed alongside body composition during healthy weight management.
Protein Sparing
The concept of consuming sufficient protein during a calorie-controlled diet to encourage the body to use stored fat for energy while preserving lean muscle mass.
Nutrition & Healthy Eating
Understand the nutritional terms commonly used when discussing balanced diets, meal planning, healthy eating and overall nutritional wellbeing.
Bioavailability
The rate, efficiency, and extent to which a given nutrient is successfully absorbed into systemic circulation and utilised by the body. Crucial when absolute food volume drops, meaning consumed vitamins and minerals must count.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are one of the three main macronutrients and provide an important source of energy for the body. They are naturally found in foods including fruit, vegetables, grains, beans and milk.
Fat
Fat is one of the three main macronutrients. It provides energy, helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins and forms an important part of a balanced diet.
Healthy Fats
Healthy fats generally refer to unsaturated fats found in foods such as olive oil, nuts, seeds, avocados and oily fish.
Unsaturated Fat
Unsaturated fats are commonly found in plant oils, nuts, seeds and oily fish. UK dietary guidance recommends choosing these fats in place of foods higher in saturated fat where appropriate.
Saturated Fat
Saturated fat is naturally present in foods such as butter, cheese, cream and fatty cuts of meat. A balanced diet generally includes proportionally more unsaturated than saturated fats.
Free Sugars
Free sugars include sugars added to foods and drinks, together with sugars naturally present in honey, syrups and fruit juices.
Added Sugars
Added sugars are sugars incorporated into foods or drinks during manufacturing, cooking or preparation.
Micronutrient Gap
A hidden trace nutritional deficiency that can develop when overall dietary consumption drop sharply. Even during successful weight reduction, a gap may result in fatigue or suboptimal immune function if essential elements are unreplaced.
Whole Foods
Whole foods are foods that have undergone little or no processing before being eaten, including vegetables, fruit, beans, eggs and wholegrains.
Wholegrains
Wholegrains retain the bran, germ and endosperm of the grain. They generally provide more fibre and naturally occurring nutrients than refined grains.
Oats
Oats are wholegrains naturally containing carbohydrates, fibre, protein, vitamins and minerals. They are commonly used in breakfast cereals and meal replacements.
Food Labels
Food labels provide important information about ingredients, allergens, nutritional values, storage instructions and serving sizes.
Nutrition Label
Nutrition labels display information such as calories, fat, carbohydrate, sugars, protein and salt to help consumers compare products.
Ingredients
Ingredients are the individual components used to manufacture a food or drink product and are normally listed in descending order by weight.
Fortified Foods
Fortified foods have vitamins, minerals or other nutrients added during manufacturing to improve their nutritional profile.
Balanced Plate
A balanced plate is a simple way of describing a meal containing appropriate proportions of vegetables, protein foods, wholegrains or other carbohydrates and healthy fats.
Eatwell Guide
The NHS Eatwell Guide illustrates the proportions of different food groups that contribute to a healthy, balanced diet for most adults.
Hydration
Hydration refers to maintaining the body’s normal fluid balance by consuming sufficient fluids throughout the day.
Water
Water is essential for life and supports temperature regulation, digestion, circulation and many other normal bodily functions.
Electrolytes
Electrolytes are minerals including sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium that help regulate fluid balance, nerve signalling and normal muscle function.
Glycaemic Index (GI)
The Glycaemic Index is a rating system that shows how quickly carbohydrate-containing foods affect your blood sugar levels when eaten on their own.
Glycaemic Load (GL)
Glycaemic Load takes into account both the glycaemic index of a food and the typical portion size eaten, providing a more accurate picture of how a meal impacts blood glucose.
Appetite & Digestion
Understand the digestive and appetite-related terms commonly associated with healthy eating, GLP-1 medicines and normal digestive function.
Appetite
Appetite is the desire to eat. It is influenced by many factors including hunger, hormones, habits, emotions, sleep and everyday lifestyle.
Appetite Blunt
A noticeable, rapid attenuation of physiological hunger signals. Quality nutritional guidance ensures an appetite blunt does not compromise total required nutrient intake or cause acute fatigue.
Appetite Regulation
Appetite regulation describes the natural processes that help balance hunger and fullness through communication between the digestive system, hormones and brain.
Appetite Hormones
Several hormones help regulate appetite, including GLP-1, GIP, ghrelin and leptin. These hormones work together to influence hunger and fullness.
Fullness
Fullness is the physical sensation that develops during or after eating and signals that enough food has been consumed.
Satiation
The progressive feeling of fullness that develops during a feeding episode, dictating when an individual ceases eating. Distinct from ongoing post-meal satisfaction.
Satiety
Satiety is the feeling of satisfaction that remains after eating and helps reduce the desire to eat again soon. Protein and dietary fibre are commonly associated with increased satiety.
Food Noise
An informal term describing frequent, intrusive thoughts about food, eating or cravings. Many patients report that this “noise” quiets significantly after initiating GLP-1 therapy.
Cravings
Cravings are strong desires for particular foods or drinks. They differ from hunger because they are often influenced by habits, emotions or environmental cues.
Digestion
Digestion is the process by which food is broken down into nutrients that can be absorbed and used by the body.
Digestive Health
Digestive health refers to the normal function of the stomach, intestines and wider digestive system.
Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes are proteins produced naturally by the body that help break down carbohydrates, fats and proteins during digestion.
Gut Health
Gut health refers to the normal function of the digestive tract together with the microorganisms that naturally live within it.
Gut Microbiome
The gut microbiome is the community of microorganisms naturally living within the digestive system. Every person’s microbiome is unique.
Dietary Fibre
Dietary fibre is the indigestible part of plant foods. It contributes to normal bowel function and forms an important part of a balanced diet.
Soluble Fibre
Soluble fibre dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance during digestion. It is naturally found in foods such as oats, beans, fruit and barley.
Insoluble Fibre
Insoluble fibre does not dissolve in water and is naturally present in wholegrains, vegetables, nuts and seeds.
Prebiotics
Prebiotics are naturally occurring fibres that are used by beneficial microorganisms within the gut. Foods containing prebiotic fibres include onions, garlic, leeks, bananas and oats.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are present in certain fermented foods and food supplements.
Postbiotics
Postbiotics are the beneficial by-products produced when the friendly probiotic bacteria in your gut consume and ferment prebiotic fibres.
Constipation
Constipation is a common digestive symptom involving infrequent or difficult bowel movements. Persistent symptoms should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Bloating
Bloating is the feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen that many people experience from time to time. Persistent or severe symptoms should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Exercise & Body Composition
Learn the common exercise, fitness and body composition terms often discussed alongside healthy nutrition, meal replacements and sustainable weight management.
Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic exercise includes activities such as walking, cycling, swimming and jogging that increase heart rate and improve cardiovascular fitness.
Body Fat Percentage
Body fat percentage is the proportion of total body weight made up of body fat. It is one of several ways of assessing body composition.
Cardiovascular Health
Cardiovascular health refers to the health of the heart and blood vessels. Regular physical activity forms part of a healthy lifestyle.
Endurance
Endurance is the body’s ability to sustain physical activity over a prolonged period. It can improve through regular aerobic exercise.
Exercise
Exercise is planned physical activity carried out to improve or maintain health, fitness, strength or endurance.
Exercise Capacity
Exercise capacity describes the amount of physical activity an individual can comfortably perform based on fitness, health and other personal factors.
Exercise Programme
An exercise programme is a structured plan of physical activity designed to support individual health or fitness goals.
Fitness
Fitness describes the body’s ability to perform physical activity efficiently. It includes strength, endurance, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness.
Flexibility
Flexibility refers to the range of movement available at a joint or group of joints and contributes to comfortable everyday movement.
Functional Movement
Functional movement describes everyday movements such as lifting, reaching, walking, bending and climbing stairs.
Lean Muscle Mass Preservation
The active safeguarding of structural muscle tissues during high calorie deficits. Prioritising dietary amino acids prevents the body from breaking down internal protein reserves for survival energy.
Mobility
Mobility is the ability to move comfortably and efficiently during everyday activities and physical exercise.
Physical Activity
Physical activity includes all movement that requires energy, from everyday walking and gardening to structured exercise and sport.
Recovery
Recovery is the period following physical activity during which the body repairs and adapts. Balanced nutrition, hydration and rest all contribute to normal recovery.
Resistance Training
Resistance training uses weights, resistance bands or body weight to strengthen muscles and support the maintenance of muscle mass.
Sarcopenic Obesity Prevention
Nutritional and lifestyle interventions intended to prevent losing safe skeletal muscle tissue faster than adipose (fat) tissue during rapid physiological weight loss transformations.
Strength Training
Strength training is a form of resistance exercise that focuses on improving muscular strength and physical function.
Walking
Walking is one of the most accessible forms of physical activity and contributes towards the UK’s recommended weekly activity guidelines.
Vitamins
Vitamins are essential micronutrients required in small amounts to support normal growth, metabolism and many everyday bodily functions. Most people obtain vitamins through a varied and balanced diet.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A contributes to the maintenance of normal vision, the normal function of the immune system and the maintenance of normal skin.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)
Thiamin contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, the normal function of the nervous system and normal psychological function.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Riboflavin contributes to normal energy metabolism, the maintenance of normal skin and vision, and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Niacin contributes to normal energy metabolism, normal psychological function and the maintenance of normal skin and mucous membranes.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Pantothenic acid contributes to normal energy metabolism, normal mental performance and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 contributes to normal protein and glycogen metabolism, normal immune function and the regulation of hormonal activity.
Vitamin B7 (Biotin)
Biotin contributes to normal energy metabolism, normal psychological function and the maintenance of normal hair and skin.
Vitamin B9 (Folate)
Folate contributes to normal blood formation, normal immune function and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 contributes to normal red blood cell formation, normal nervous system function and normal energy-yielding metabolism.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system, normal collagen formation and the protection of cells from oxidative stress.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, teeth, muscle function and the normal function of the immune system.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress and is naturally present in foods such as nuts, seeds and vegetable oils.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K contributes to normal blood clotting and the maintenance of normal bones.
Minerals
Minerals are essential nutrients required for normal growth, development and many everyday bodily functions. They are obtained through a varied and balanced diet and each mineral has a specific role within the body.
Calcium
Calcium contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and teeth, normal muscle function and normal nerve transmission. Dairy products, fortified foods and some green vegetables are good dietary sources.
Chloride
Chloride contributes to normal digestion through the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach and is commonly consumed as part of table salt.
Chromium
Chromium contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism and the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels.
Copper
Copper contributes to normal energy metabolism, normal iron transport and the normal function of the immune and nervous systems.
Iodine
Iodine contributes to normal thyroid function, normal cognitive function and normal energy metabolism. Seafood, dairy products and eggs are common dietary sources.
Iron
Iron contributes to normal red blood cell formation, normal oxygen transport and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Good dietary sources include meat, beans, lentils and fortified cereals.
Magnesium
Magnesium contributes to normal muscle function, normal energy metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Nuts, seeds, wholegrains and leafy green vegetables are good dietary sources.
Manganese
Manganese contributes to normal connective tissue formation, normal energy metabolism and the protection of cells from oxidative stress.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus contributes to normal energy metabolism and the maintenance of normal bones and teeth.
Potassium
Potassium contributes to normal muscle function, normal nervous system function and the maintenance of normal blood pressure.
Selenium
Selenium contributes to the normal function of the immune system, normal thyroid function and the protection of cells from oxidative stress.
Sodium
Sodium is an essential electrolyte involved in fluid balance, nerve signalling and normal muscle function. It is commonly consumed as part of table salt.
Zinc
Zinc contributes to normal immune function, normal protein synthesis and the maintenance of normal skin, hair, nails and bones.
Healthcare, Nutrition & Regulatory Terms
Understand the healthcare professionals, organisations and regulatory terms commonly encountered when researching GLP-1 medicines, nutrition, meal replacements and food supplements in the UK.
Dietitian
A dietitian is a qualified healthcare professional specialising in food, nutrition and dietetics. In the UK, the title “Dietitian” is protected by law and practitioners must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Nutritionist
A nutritionist works in the field of nutrition. Unlike the title “Dietitian”, the title “Nutritionist” is not protected by law in the UK, although many practitioners belong to recognised professional organisations.
Healthcare Professional
A healthcare professional is a suitably qualified individual such as a doctor, pharmacist, nurse or dietitian who is trained to provide healthcare advice within their area of expertise.
Pharmacist
A pharmacist is a qualified healthcare professional with specialist knowledge of medicines. Pharmacists can provide advice on prescription medicines and their safe use.
General Practitioner (GP)
A General Practitioner (GP) is a doctor providing primary healthcare within the NHS. A GP can advise on medical conditions, medicines and referrals to specialist services where appropriate.
Prescription Medicine
A prescription medicine is a medicine that may only be supplied following assessment by an appropriately qualified prescriber. Prescription medicines should always be used exactly as directed.
NHS
The National Health Service (NHS) provides publicly funded healthcare throughout the United Kingdom and publishes evidence-based guidance on healthy eating, weight management and many other health topics.
MHRA
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) regulates medicines and medical devices in the United Kingdom.
Food Standards Agency (FSA)
The Food Standards Agency is responsible for food safety and food regulation in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, including guidance relating to food supplements and novel foods.
Authorised Health Claim
An authorised health claim is a health statement that has been scientifically assessed and approved for use under UK nutrition and health claims legislation.
Nutrition Claim
A nutrition claim describes the nutritional characteristics of a food, such as “high protein” or “source of fibre”. These claims are regulated under UK legislation.
Food Supplement
A food supplement is intended to supplement the normal diet and should not be used as a substitute for a varied, balanced diet or a healthy lifestyle.
HCPC
The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) is the UK regulator for several healthcare professions, including dietitians.
CQC (Care Quality Commission)
The independent regulator of health and adult social care in England. They inspect and ensure clinics and pharmacies meet essential standards of quality and patient safety.
Tier 3 Weight Management Service
A specialist NHS service providing support for people living with obesity, which includes a multidisciplinary team such as doctors, dietitians, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) therapists, mental health practitioners, and physiotherapists. This is the tier where GLP-1 weight loss medication pathways are typically managed and monitored.
Tier 4 Weight Management Service
The NHS pathway dedicated to bariatric (weight loss) surgery, designed for people with a BMI of 40 or more (or 35 with specific health conditions) who are ready to make long-term changes.
Wraparound Care
A comprehensive support programme that must accompany prescriptions for medications like tirzepatide. It includes necessary advice on healthy eating, nutrition, increasing physical activity, and making long-term lifestyle changes.
Adjusted BMI Thresholds
Specific NHS prescribing criteria that lower the standard Body Mass Index (BMI) requirement by 2.5 units for individuals from South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African, or African-Caribbean backgrounds. This adjustment is due to these populations having a higher risk of health problems at lower body weights.
SMC (Scottish Medicines Consortium)
The organisation that approves medications, including GLP-1 therapies, for use within NHS Scotland.
Yellow Card Scheme
An MHRA system used to collect and monitor information on suspected safety concerns or side effects related to medicines. Patients and clinicians are encouraged to report any suspected side effects from GLP-1 medicines directly through this scheme.
Yellow Card Biobank
A collaboration between the MHRA and Genomics England investigating whether a patient’s genetic makeup increases their risk of experiencing rare but severe side effects, such as acute pancreatitis, from GLP-1 medicines.
Medical Disclaimer & References
This glossary has been created to explain common nutrition, meal replacement and GLP-1 terminology in plain English. It is intended as an educational resource and should not be considered medical advice.
Medical Disclaimer: The information within this glossary is provided for general educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease and should not replace advice from your GP, pharmacist, registered dietitian or another appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Prescription medicines, including GLP-1 medicines such as Wegovy®, Ozempic® and Mounjaro®, should only be used under appropriate medical supervision.
Nutrition Guidance: Meal replacements and food supplements are intended to complement a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. They are not medicines and should not be regarded as alternatives to prescribed medical treatment or personalised dietary advice.
Editorial Policy: This glossary has been written using UK English and reviewed to reflect current UK nutrition guidance wherever possible. Definitions are intended to explain commonly used terminology in a clear, accessible manner without making unauthorised medical or nutrition claims.
Further Reading: Readers wishing to explore these topics in more detail may find the following organisations useful sources of evidence-based information:
- NHS
- British Dietetic Association (BDA)
- Food Standards Agency (FSA)
- Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)
- NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence)
- Department of Health and Social Care
Last Reviewed: July 2026. This glossary is reviewed periodically to reflect developments in nutrition science, UK guidance and relevant terminology.