Take heed of your body’s warning signs

YOUR TONGUE IS WHITE

“Creamy white patches on the tongue can be a build-up of plaque, which is normal, or can relate to a digestive problem, or an oral bacteria imbalance,” says Dr Steven Lin.

WHAT TO DO “Use a tongue cleaner or your toothbrush to remove build-up,” says Dr Lin. If you’re concerned this is oral thrush, see your GP for advice.

SMALL WHITE PATCHES ON YOUR NAILS LS

According to naturopath Will Shannon, white patches are linked to a lack of zinc, magnesium and other minerals, or can be due to a knock to the matrix or root. WHAT TO DO “As nails are primarily calcium, consider a calcium supplement, a general mineral powder or a greens powder for macronutrients,” says Will.

YOU END EACH DAY WITH A HEADACHE

“Most headaches are the result of tension in the muscles of the scalp and forehead,” says Dr John D’arcy. “Stress at work, failure to take a break or missing lunch can all set you up for a headache at the end of the day.” WHAT TO DO Prevention is always better than cure says John, so relieve stress, take ke bre breaks and cut out foods or drinks that act as a trigger. If tingling, gling, numb numbness or vision problems continue, see your GP.

YOUR GUMS BLEED

Dr Lin says your gut may be imbalanced. “I’d look for a vitamin D deficiency, eating too much sugar or simple car carbohydrates, and not eating enough fibre and fermen fermented foods,” he says. WHAT TO DO “Eat more fat soluble, vitamin-rich foods like eggs, butter and cheese, and lots of fibre,” he says.