Collagen is a naturally occurring fibrous protein that is important in maintaining the health and vitality of connective tissue. Collagen is found in virtually all body organs, including the bones, skin, tendons, ligaments and cartilage.

If you've eaten a stuffed green olive from an antipasto tray or off the toothpick in your martini, it's likely you had a Spanish Manzanilla olive. The most abundant variety of green olive in the world, Spanish Manzanillas have a sharp, salty flavor.

Don't think that protein shakes are the exclusive domain of athletes. A shake makes a quick and convenient meal for many people on the go -- even those not dashing from the gym. Before you develop a serious protein shake habit, however, consider whether it's the best choice for your weight and nutrient needs.

Iron deficiency is one of the most common dietary mineral deficiencies in the world, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. The best sources of iron are animal products, which contain heme iron. Plant sources contain non-heme iron, which is more difficult for your body to absorb.

An intense body odor is a problem that isn't often discussed, but is one that should be. You may unknowingly offend others; if you're aware of your own body odor, you may feel self-conscious. Take measures to combat body odor with diet and lifestyle habits.

Iron is an essential nutrient that your body needs to make blood cells and proteins. Your doctor may prescribe iron supplements if you have iron-deficiency anemia caused by lack of dietary iron, blood loss or chronic disease.

Gout sufferers need to avoid foods high in purines -- naturally occurring compounds that your body metabolizes into uric acid. When your blood has too high a concentration of uric acid, it can accumulate in your joints, causing the swelling, inflammation and pain characteristic of gout.

Although iron is an essential mineral required for your body to function properly, too much iron in the body can be dangerous. People with hemochromatosis -- a condition that occurs when too much iron builds up in the body -- often need to limit their dietary iron intake to help prevent iron toxicity.

Munching on a raw potato isn't as common as enjoying a baked potato, but nutrient content is similar. Raw potatoes contain more of some vitamins and minerals, but many are located in the skin, which isn't always eaten when consuming potatoes without cooking them.

If you are looking for an alternative to your usual brown rice, consider trying red rice. This russet-colored whole grain has a nutty flavor and soft texture, and goes well with most meats and vegetables or served as a pilaf or salad. Like brown rice, red rice is a good source of fiber.

Diet and lifestyle changes are the first line of defense when it comes to high triglycerides -- a type of fat carried in the blood that when elevated over time increases the risk of heart disease. The majority of the fats in your diet are in the form of triglycerides.

Made by cooking ground wheat grains in water until they form a porridge, cream of wheat makes for a healthful breakfast that's both adaptable and affordable.