Beef bile supplements, also known as ox bile supplements or ox bile extracts, consist of several bile acids – cholic acid, desoxycholic acid, glycocholic acid and taurocholic acid – or the bile salts of these acids.

Iodine is an element that is useful in preventing and treating infections. Because iodine has a risk of toxicity and may damage healthy cells, the element is usually used in combination with povidone, a water-soluble polymer.

Toor dal is also sometimes referred to as lentils or split pigeon peas. This traditional Indian dish is often served with rich spices over rice, and is a staple in many Indian restaurants and households.

Castor oil is made from the beans of the castor plant. There are multiple uses for castor oil, though none of them are supported by evidence presented in clinical trials. One use for castor oil is cosmetic, and it is included in certain skin care products.

L-Arginine is an amino acid -- a chemical building block of protein. It is a precursor to nitric oxide, a gas known as a vasodilator. Vasodilators are agents that widen and relax blood vessels.

Both iron and magnesium are considered essential minerals and are recommended for a balanced diet. According to a study published in a 1994 issue of “Magnesium Research,” iron and magnesium generally should be taken simultaneously for maximum tolerance and compliance.

Lecithin, a product used in commercial cooking and sold as a natural supplement, is sometimes added to milkshakes and smoothies. It may be used in powdered form as well as in granules.

Flaxseed oil is an alternative source of heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids -- if you can't take fish oil. In addition to alpha-linolenic acid, flaxseed oil also contains lignans, weak estrogenic substances that may also have health benefits.

Coumadin is the brand name for the medication warfarin. It is typically prescribed as a blood-thinning medication, and some dietary restrictions are required when you are on the medication. Coumadin patients should not eat foods high in vitamin K, because it interferes with the blood-thinning ability of the medicine.

Colorless, flavorless and odorless, vodka blends seamlessly with most other liquids without asserting itself or flattening out the flavor of the mixer. It's popular among cocktail drinkers for this reason, but there also are some surprising health benefits that come from vodka.

Biosil is a supplement containing the minerals choline and silicon. BioMinerals N.V., the manufacturer of Biosil, claims that use of its supplement will result in healthier hair, nails and skin as well as improve bone and joint health.

The MIC diet is a medically assisted weight loss program that involves taking injections along with following a reduced calorie and carbohydrate diet and increased physical activity. As part of the diet, your health care provider might also recommend B-12 shots to boost your energy and augment weight loss.