World's best health boosters

Experts say these time-honored traditions from other countries can help you stay healthy, happy and energized.

- BRENDA KEARNS

America's smart health secret

It's nuts! We snack on them about 3 times weekly.

And treating yourself to 1/3 cup of nuts daily could boost your protection against heart disease, type 2 diabetes and even dementia. That's because the crunchers boast rich stores of healthy fats, plant proteins and minerals. And a recent Spanish review of 113 studies reveals that those nutrients keep cholesterol levels healthy and blood vessels strong and plaque-free. Plus, they steady blood sugar to reduce wear and tear on your pancreas.

Live longer with daily soaks

People in Japan often treat themselves to warm evening soaks. Now, a study in the journal Heart found that enjoying daily (or almost daily) baths helps steady blood pressure and flush out inflammation, slowing the aging of blood vessels and organs while boosting pro- tection against heart disease and stroke.

OR TAKE D3 This nutrient keeps muscles, joints and other tissues healthy, Italian scientists say. And a new study reveals that supplementing with 2,000 IU of D3 daily is all it takes to feel energized and in tiptop shape.

Protect your memory with cheese