Wisdom

Are we too clean for our own good? Hygiene has come a long way over the last century, but scientists seeking to understand the causes of the dramatic rise in allergic disease seen in industrialised populations over the same timespan have questioned if this was the cause.

From the moment we are born, our immune system protects us from infection; blinking, sneezing and coughing are all defences against harmful microbes in our environment.

Beta glucans are unique molecules found in foods that are beneficial to human health. There are two types, each with very different properties.

Q. I suffer with cold sores and would like to take steps to avoid them. Are there any natural ways of preventing them or dealing with them at the first signs?

Catching a cold can happen to most of us at some time during the year, so how can you stay well and be prepared?