Although most Americans get enough protein in their diet, some groups, such as elite athletes, have higher protein needs and may feel the need to supplement with protein powders.

The average American eats about 12 pounds of carrots each year, according to statistics from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Of those, more than 8 pounds are fresh, raw carrots.

Brussels sprouts don't have the best reputation in the United States, but cookbook author Mollie Katzen says roasted brussels sprouts are tasty enough to change even the most devout hater's mind. They're also good for you: Boston.com health writer Deborah Kotz lists brussels sprouts as a wintertime superfood.

Lentils have been a staple in the human diet since ancient times. A member of the same legume family that includes peas and dried beans, lentils cook quickly -- they don't require any presoaking -- and are an inexpensive, low-fat source of protein, vitamins, minerals and fiber.

Oatmeal is a nutrient-dense breakfast, whether you consume it dry or cooked. It contains a type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan that may help you control your blood sugar levels and lower your risk for high cholesterol, cancer and obesity, according to an article published in "

Glucose is a type of sugar found in a range of foods, including fresh fruits and honey. Glucose is sometimes also called "blood sugar" as it is created when your body breaks down carbohydrates -- both sugars and starches.

Probiotics are beneficial microbes, many of which are located in your gut. They're also found in your diet in foods such as miso, yogurt, tempeh and kefir, as well as supplements. While probiotics offer health benefits, taking too many -- or under the wrong conditions -- can cause side effects.

Beef chuck, also known as pot roast or under blade steak, is a tender and flavorful cut from the shoulder of the steer. You can braise it to retain the moisture during cooking without adding fat.

MayoClinic.com lauds roasting as one of the healthiest cooking methods you can employ, since it uses dry heat to soften vegetables and doesn't require any added butter or oil, which can contribute significant amounts of calories and fat to cooked foods.

Black pepper is a nutritious and low-cal seasoning, but it won't make you lose belly fat. While preliminary evidence points to black pepper's potential benefit for fighting obesity in some cases, other studies have failed to show any fat-burning benefits.

Although Americans are eating more chicken, they still love their beef, and average more than 50 pounds of beef per person each year, according to NPR. It's OK to eat meat, but you're better off if you keep your choices lean, and that means having a 3-ounce serving that has less than 10 grams of total fat, 4.

Diet soda might seem like a smart beverage choice because it's calorie-free and doesn't contain any added sugar, but it's actually associated with higher blood pressure, though drinking it won't necessarily cause hypertension.