A healthy diet is important for everyone at all stages of the life cycle. Children require the same kinds of nutrients as adults to support their growing bodies and activity, but the amount of protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals children need varies depending on their age, sex and activity level.

While you won’t grow taller than you’re genetically designed to, getting plenty of essential vitamins daily helps ensure you reach your full growth potential.

Native to North America and some parts of Europe, cranberries have been cultivated for centuries. While these tart berries can be consumed in their natural form, they are often processed and sold as juice. Cranberry juice provides a number of important health benefits -- especially for women.

B-complex vitamins are nutrients that help your body convert calories into energy. They are also important for vision, normal appetite, and healthy skin, hair and nails. In addition, they play a role in the formation of red blood cells and the functioning of the nervous system.

Coconut oil adds a twist of flavor to many popular foods such as sauteed veggies, recipes for baked goods and seared meats. Coconut oil is high in fat, however, particularly in saturated fat. Coconut oil, as well as other tropical oils like palm kernel oil, contains lauric acid, which is a good kind of fatty acid.

A person with diabetes can eat anything, so you can certainly include pizza and Chinese food on your menu. This doesn’t mean you can eat either type of fare with abandon or without consideration of other foods on your menu for the day.

Going low carb involves making a lot of changes in your diet, and can also cause a lot of changes in how your body works. It is common for low carb dieters to experience changes in their bowel movements, especially during the first couple of weeks.

Vitamins are micronutrients, meaning that your body only requires them in minute quantities. They don't directly provide energy, yet they're critical for life. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a vitamin-rich diet can help you stave off many diseases.

Selecting extra virgin olive oil as a dietary fat is a healthy choice. While some evidence exists that olive oil may be helpful in your weight-loss efforts, dropping pounds requires a decrease in calorie intake.

One-third of Americans take multivitamins, according to a 2012 article published in Mother Jones magazine.

Refueling your body with appropriate food after running, biking or other cardiovascular exercise enhances recovery, staving off fatigue and low blood sugar.

It's week 1 of the LIVESTRONG.COM 30-Day Burpee Challenge! Whether you love, hate or love-hate burpees, here are some tips to help you start the challenge strong.