Prescription on a plate

Health niggle you can't shift? The best cures could be what you serve up for dinner

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Constantly feel tired or notice your skin is flaring up? You may not be filling up on the right foods. Diet can have a big impact on your health – from lowering blood pressure and boosting low libido to even reducing your risk of dementia. So, before you hit the supermarket, add these healthier buys to your shopping list.

COLDS AND FLU

Vitamin C is great for fighting infections and, fortunately, it’s found in many everyday foods, says dietician Sophie Medlin. Add citrus fruits, peppers, strawberries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and potatoes to your trolley. ENJOY: Spicy meals. ‘wasabi, mustard and chilli can open the sinuses and ease congestion,’ says nutritional therapist Alison Cullen.

BAD BREATH

Got your central heating on? ‘It increases the chances of developing halitosis (bad breath), gingivitis and tooth decay due to a lack of saliva,’ says dentist Dr Harold Katz. Luckily, foods can play a part in fending off bad oral odours.