ALL THE ANSWERS TO OUR CHRISTMAS QUESTIONS

1

Add 1 point for each. Scientists still aren’t sure how they worked but gold injections were used to control rheumatoid arthritis until the development of newer therapies, with fewer side effects. Myrrh improves insulin response and reduces inflammation.And frankincense, which is also known as boswellia, has anti-inflammatory properties which help relieve IBS, bronchitis and sinusitis.

2

Add 2 points if you answered C, add 1 point for either A or B.A shot of sugar from after dinner mints will provide a brief burst of energy but for sustained staying power we need iron – and official dietary data shows that 54 per cent of girls and 27 per cent of women are not getting enough.

Red meat is a good source, so the pork sausages in the “pigs” will provide 1.1mg per 100g and the same amount of turkey has 0.65mg. But 100g dates will deliver twice that amount – 1.3mg of iron – plus short-term sugar lift.

3

Vitamin C supports the immune system so it is particularly important when you are spending time with people. Score 1 point each for either citrus fruit or peas as both have some vitamin C – 26.7mg per 100g and 14.2mg respectively. But give yourself 2 points if you answered C as sprouts have the most, with 62mg per 100g. Deduct a point if you answered D, there’s no

vitamin C in parsnips.

4

Add 1 point if you answered A as Christmas pudding is packed with healthy ingredients. Raisins and sultanas are high in iron, fibre and potassium, which lowers blood pressure. Currants are bursting with vitamin C and citrus peel has cholesterol-lowering chemicals known as polymethoxylated flavones.

It’s true that dark chocolate and berries are antioxidants but the small quantities in these puddings are outweighed by their high sugar content.