Lysine is an essential amino acid that plays an active role in growth and development, collagen formation, calcium absorption and cholesterol regulation. Arginine is a conditionally essential amino acid involved in wound healing, immune system function and hormone secretion.

When cashews are blended with water, the result is a creamy liquid referred to as cashew milk. Cashew milk is lactose-free, but the nutrients vary depending on whether you make it at home or buy a commercially prepared product.

Raw, roasted or ground into butter, people eat peanuts in a variety of ways. Peanuts have also been noted for their health benefits, such as protein, fiber and vitamin E. Less well known is that nutrients are hidden in the papery skin that's often discarded before you consume peanuts.

Sweet-tasting foods are undoubtedly one of life's best simple pleasures. On both physical and emotional levels, sugar is often more satisfying than any of the other types of food.

Vinegar has antiseptic properties that can kill germs and relieve pain, according to Bonnie K. McMillen, R.N., B.S.N., college health nurse at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. If you are experiencing pain from a sunburn, you may want to reach for a bottle of vinegar to soothe your discomfort.

Incorporating more iron into your daily diet can help prevent anemia and may improve your energy level. Your body needs iron to properly form red blood cells, transport oxygen to cells, and for the growth and development of new cells.

When dieting you need to be able to rely on low calorie foods and high nutrient snacks to make it through the day. Strong protein and fiber content provides energy for any activity level.

Crunchy raw celery sticks make a nutritious snack to help manage your weight. You'll get essential vitamins and minerals from celery needed to maintain your overall health and keep your immune system at its best.

Textured vegetable protein -- also known as textured soy protein -- is a healthy recipe substitute for browned ground beef since it contains no fat, saturated fat or cholesterol. Prepared from defatted soy flour, plain TVP contains no added flavors or colorings and can be stored in an air-tight container indefinitely.

People often say they want to eat healthier. One of the first steps to take is examining nutritional value prior to purchasing foods. Food labels include most relevant information, including calories, fat, protein, and carbohydrate content. Vitamin and mineral levels are also included.

Ensuring that you're properly hydrated during exercise helps you avoid dehydration, but water won't always do the trick. If you exercise for more than an hour, a drink such as Gatorade, which restores electrolytes and carbohydrates, can replenish what you lose through sweat. Gatorade, however, packs a sugary punch.

The taste of sardines isn't for everyone, but if you enjoy seafood and don't mind the strong, fishy flavor of sardines, you might find yourself opening a can. Sardines are part of the herring family and, for North American consumers, are caught in the North Atlantic Ocean.