Use this section as a reference tool to maximize your vocabulary . We realize that some of you are more advanced bodybuilding enthusiasts have already grasped the meaning of these terms but for others, an explanation of what they mean will take your knowledge base to higher level.

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Lactose - Lactose is the sugar is naturally found in the milk of all mammals, but is not found anywhere else in nature. Our body cannot absorb lactose because the molecule is too large to pass through the small intestinal wall and enter our blood stream. The lactose molecule must first be split into two smaller molecules (glucose and galactose) that we can absorb. This is done by an enzyme located in the intestinal wall called lactase. As we age, some of us lose significant amounts of this enzyme, and we can no longer digest milk sugar. Whey is a dairy protein that is a by-product of the cheese making process. In its raw state, whey contains substantial amounts of fat and lactose (milk sugar). You wouldn't want to eat raw whey. That's why it is filtered and processed: to remove most of the lactose and fat. If youve ever heard of "microfiltration" or "ion exchange," those are simply methods of separating the fat and lactose from the protein. The end result is a more concentrated protein.

Lats - Abbreviation for latissimus dorsi, the large muscles of the back that move the arms downward, backward and in internal rotation.

Layoff - A one or two week break from bodybuilding training.

LDL - This stands for "low-density lipoprotein" and is a subcategory of cholesterol, typically thought of as the "bad" cholesterol. Levels of LDL cholesterol can be elevated by ingestion of saturated fats and a lack of exercise.

Lean Body Mass - Everything in the body except fat, including bone, organs, skin, nails and all body tissue including muscle. Approximately 50-60% of lean body mass is water.

Ligament - Strong, fibrous band of connecting tissue connecting 2 or more bones or cartilages or supporting a muscle, fascia or organ.

Linoleic acid - An essential fatty acid and, more precise an omega-6 poly-unsaturated fatty acid. It is found in high concentrations in flaxseed oil.

Lipoproteins - transporters of fatty substances in the blood.

Lock Out - Partial repetition of an exercise by pushing the weight through only last few inches of movement.

Lower Abs - Abbreviation for abdominal muscles below the navel.

Lycopene - A carotenoid related to the better known beta-carotene. Lycopene gives tomatoes and some other fruits and vegetables their distinctive red color. Nutritionally, it functions as an antioxidant.