Health tips (49 to 56)

Eye checks for diabetics

Diabetes can cause severe eye problems, even blindness. So if you are diabetic, do remember that it's important to make time for regular check-ups, including eye check-ups for at least once a year.

Feeling blue? Sniff citrus!

The fresh smell of oranges, limes, lemons or bergamot can perk up your mood. So the next time you feel low, take some time out to peel and eat an orange, have a shower in lemon or lime-scented shower foam or use some bergamot aromatherapy oils. Bergamot in particular is often used in natural therapies to treat stress-related disorders.

Fight pain with needles

If backache, neck ache or any other bodily pains ail you, why not consider acupuncture? The traditional therapy uses needles in specific meridian point to combat pain. Some research indicates it can help deal effectively with chronic pain.

Fill up on Folic Acid

If you're planning to conceive, start taking folic acid (vitamin B9) supplements to prepare your body. About 400 micrograms (mg) daily prior to conception can reduce birth defect risks. At least 400mg of folic acid during pregnancy also reduces the risk of miscarriage and premature birth.

Fat-free does not mean healthy

A "fat-free" label doesn't mean you can eat all you want without consequences to your waistline. Many fat-free foods are high in sugar, refined carbohydrates and calories!

Fight cholesterol with fibre

Did you know you can speed up the removal of cholesterol from your blood by eating more fibre? Start scrubbing away that cholesterol by eating more oats, barley, fruit, vegetables, legumes and whole grains.

Fight the fungus

Athlete's foot, jock itch and nail fungus - they are all caused by the same pesky tinea fungus. To avoid tinea, keep the areas it targets dry and clean, use shower sandals in public bathing areas, and wear loose-fitting clothing.

Get creative with your veggies

Brightly coloured fruits and vegetables are simply bursting with goodness for your growing child - but might not always be his or her favourite thing on the plate. Try presenting them in a creative way, by cutting them into different shapes and sizes, to encourage your child to eat up.