Margarine may help lower your cholesterol levels compared to butter. Some types of margarine now tout their plant sterol or plant stanol content and mention the potential cholesterol-lowering benefits of these ingredients. These types of margarine may also be "light"

Malic acid, a natural substance found in fruits and vegetables, is commonly associated with apples. The body produces malic acid when it converts carbohydrates into energy. Taking malic acid supplements is beneficial for conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome.

It's 1 p.m. when the mental fog descends. You stare aimlessly at your computer and daydream of countries that value the afternoon siesta. Unfortunately, fantasizing about a catnap won't make it a reality. It's time to snap out of it and plan for an energized tomorrow.

Fluid retention can result from prolonged sitting or standing, taking certain medications, eating foods that are high in sodium or suffering from certain diseases including liver or kidney disease.

The body relies on the nutrients it gets from food to keep it running smoothly and in good health. In today's society, the abundance of overprocessed, high-calorie, low-nutrient foods is responsible for a range of illnesses and diseases.

Neuropathy, also known as peripheral neuropathy or neuritis, is a condition caused by nerve damage that may result from illnesses such as diabetes, injuries, infections or exposure to various toxins. Common symptoms include tingling, burning and/or numbness and pain in the hands and feet.

A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves up into the chest cavity and presses through an opening in the diaphragm. The most common type is a sliding hiatal hernia, which is when part of the stomach slides in and out of the chest cavity.

Vinegar and water can be important parts of a weight-loss diet, but they should not be your only source of sustenance for any longer than a day or two. Any diet that advises you to fast, to eat only one food or to cut out entire food groups is considered a fad diet and not a healthy way to lose weight and keep it off.

The hot sauce you add to your eggs and chili did not cause your ulcer, but continuing to add it may not make you feel any better. Gastric ulcers are caused by a bacteria known as Helicobacter pylori.

Sugar cravings often strike after a meal, despite feelings of fullness. Habits, brain chemistry and your diet’s makeup cause you to crave sweets. You can learn to fight the cravings, but only after you understand why they occur.

Glycerin is an organic compound known more formally as glycerol. Its common sources are animal fat and vegetable oil. Glycerin is a clear, odorless liquid at room temperature, and it has a sweet taste. It’s most commonly used in soap and is also a common ingredient in many pharmaceuticals.

When choosing a protein supplement, consider whether you have food allergies or intolerances and what your goal is -- weight loss, muscle building, improved sports performance or better overall nutrition.