Dates

With only 24 calories per fruit, dates are high in dietary fiber and contain more potassium than bananas. Yet they're virtually fat-, cholesterol- and sodium-free. Dates also provide Vitamins A, C and B-Complex, and are rich in magnesium and iron. Naturally alkaline, they can soothe ulcers and sensitive stomachs.

Cinnamon

Studies show that a dash of cinnamon may help Type 2 diabetics by lowering blood sugar, triglycerides and cholesterol levels. The effect could also benefit millions of non-diabetics who have blood-sugar problems but are unaware of it. Cinnamon can also relieve the pain of arthritis.

Cashews

Teeming with iron and zinc, cashews can enhance your immune functions. They are also lower in fat than many nuts and derive 72 percent of their calories from monounsaturated fat. Rich in heart-healthy oils and B6 vitamins, they can help reduce stress.

Cocoa

Loaded with antioxidants, cocoa can slow the aging process and fight disease. Evidence also shows that it can reduce high blood pressure, improve blood flow, and keep your heart healthy. The Flavonols in cocoa can even help prevent blood-clotting, thus lowering the risk of stroke. Now you can have your chocolate and eat it too!

Dates

With only 24 calories per fruit, dates are high in dietary fiber and contain more potassium than bananas. Yet they're virtually fat-, cholesterol- and sodium-free. Dates also provide Vitamins A, C and B-Complex, and are rich in magnesium and iron. Naturally alkaline, they can soothe ulcers and sensitive stomachs.

Peanuts

Peanuts are not nuts, but actually legumes, the best source of concentrated protein in the plant kingdom. In fact, a 1-ounce serving provides 15% of the recommended daily amount of protein, along with 17.5% of folate, and 23% of Vitamin E. Peanuts are also one of the few food sources of Vitamin D.