“Ionic bound” — a chemical link between two atoms caused by the electrostatic force between oppositely-charged ions in an ionic compound.

“Ion” — an atom or group of atoms that carries a positive or negative electric charge as a result of having lost or gained one or more electrons.

“Intervention trial” — an experimental study (usually a clinical trial) used to test the effect of a treatment or intervention on a health- or disease-related outcome.

“In vitro” — refers to studies and/or phenomena that take place outside the body (e.g., in test tubes).

“High density lipoproteins” (HDL) – proteins that transport cholesterol from tissues to the liver, where it can be eliminated in bile. HDL-cholesterol is considered good cholesterol, because higher blood levels of HDL-cholesterol are associated with lower risk of heart disease.