Most packages of food include a sell-by or use-by date that helps stores and consumers know how long each item is safe for consumption. Eating foods that have expired might increase your risk for certain illnesses or conditions.

With its refreshing effervescence, sparkling water already has a leg up on plain, old still water. In addition to keeping you hydrated, sparkling water might have benefits to your health as a result of its mineral content.

Gaining muscle mass with a fast metabolism is not impossible, as many "hard-gainers" believe. Hard-gainer types typically have an ectomorph body, with smaller bone structure and less natural muscular build than other body types.

Monoglycerides and diglycerides are food additives commonly used to combine ingredients containing fats with those containing water, two types of ingredients that don't ordinarily combine well. Food manufacturers typically use them to extend a product's shelf life.

Glucose gets broken down from the carbohydrates in foods and drinks to provide all your muscles and organs with fast-acting fuel. When you work out, your body uses glucose for muscle function, and after you work out, it also requires glucose to rebuild your muscles with protein.

The health benefits of apples are numerous and well-known. Full of fiber, these vitamin-packed fruits are suggested as part of each meal, helping you to stave off hunger and fill up on low-calorie produce.

Collagen supplements, collagen vitamins, collagen peptides and collagen powders have had a strong rise within the wellness industry. What is collagen? What are collagen's side effects? And is it good for your skin? Find out below.

Dried blueberries pack a nutritional punch. They are low in sodium and in calories, offering 127 calories per one-quarter cup, and they contain no cholesterol. In addition, these fruits contain nutrients that are vital for your health. There are many ways for you to enjoy these sweet treats.

Fast-digesting carbs are effective after a workout, to help replenish your muscles' depleted glycogen stores, or before a workout, if you need a quick boost of energy but don't have time for a meal.

Roughage, also known as fiber or bulk, is an indigestible compound that your body can't absorb. It is found in many fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes. A high-fiber diet has many advantages, including bowel regularity and decreased risk of developing diverticulitis, high blood pressure and diabetes.

Many hospital staffers, factory workers, security guards and even white-collar employees are just starting their workdays when other people are going to bed. On the night shift, normal eating and sleep routines are disrupted.

When you're supplementing your diet to improve your workouts, you'll want to take your supplements at the time when they'll offer the most benefits. For protein and creatine supplementation, your muscles are most receptive immediately following a workout. Consult your doctor before adding any supplements to your diet.