We are often told that our nails can tell us a lot about our state of health. But do we know what to look for?

Charlotte Vohtz nails the subject in her book, Naturally Gorgeous, Essential Health and Beauty Sectrets.

Here are eight tips from the book.

1. White spots or flecks on nails indicate a zinc deficiency, which may have many causes — too much alcohol or even side effects from taking the contraceptive pill.

2. Ridged or brittle nails may highlight a calcium deficiency or lack of vitamin A.

3. Cracked or broken nails — in the absence of any other reason such as heavy manual work — may show up a lack of fluids. Dehydration can cause many conditions including blocked sinuses.

4. Nails which split easily may indicate a lack of fatty acids in the diet.

5. Dryness and very rounded and curved ends could be a lack of vitamin B12, which may be linked to an iron deficiency.

6. For super-healthy nails make half your diet consist of fresh fruit and vegetables, some raw. This will boost your intake of vitamins, minerals and enzymes.

7. Add foods rich in sulphur and silicon, like fish, broccoli and onions. Also foods high in biotin, such as soya and whole grains.

8. Foods like wild seaweed (kelp tablets will do), which contain iodine for the thyroid gland, an organ that plays a part in the growth of nails, hair, skin and teeth.

How to Boost Your Immune System — Part 6

Fresh vegetable and fruit juices are known to boost the immune system. They are packed with super-antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that nourish all parts of the body. They also help in detoxing the body tissues.

Naturopaths recommend different recipes, but here’s a good one that isn’t overloaded with sugars that may disrupt your blood sugar.

Juice equal quantities of :

Carrots
Celery
Winter cabbage or broccoli
Apples
Add ginger to taste.

Consume the juice as soon as it’s made for extra goodness and flavor.

Investing in a good quality juicer, such as the Intojuicer, available from www.intojuice.com, is definitely worthwhile.

How to Boost Your Immune System — Part 5

We’ve all heard that challenges and various forms of excitement are good for our health. But too much can easily lower the effectiveness of your immune system.

An expert on immunity, Dr Alex Concorde, offers the simple advice of heading off stress from the outset.

The trick is not to focus on demands on your time, but to concentrate on what your actions can realistically achieve. This may involve creating a suitable home environment, or being successful in your job.

The main object, though, is to keep it light and full of fun. Laughter is known to help the immune system, as is plenty of optimism.

So, share a joke and always Think Positive.

How to Boost Your Immune System — Part 4

Chywanaprash is an ayurvedic organic paste containing many immune-boosting ingredients. These include fruit, spices, honey and selected herbs.

It is delicious as a general tonic to enhance vitality. Children love it.

Take one or two teaspoons in the morning. It can be taken directly from the spoon, with warm milk, or on toast for breakfast.

Chywanaprash can be obtained from herbalists and good health food stores.

One example is Pukka Herbs.