Upplements

Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes and other red fruits. It helps guard against heart disease, some cancers, osteoporosis and exercise-induced asthma, plus it has anti-ageing properties as it protects skin from sun damage.

Milk thistle (silymarin) can help settle upset stomachs caused by overindulgence. As it protects the liver from toxins such as alcohol, it’s good to take after a night out and if you have hepatitis, cirrhosis or liver damage. Because it enhances the effects of oestrogen, it’s not suggested for those with endometriosis, fibroids or female cancers.

N

ettle (stinging nettle) is a diuretic so it can help with urinary tract infections, water retention and constipation. It’s also useful for allergies such as hay fever, asthma and bronchitis as it reduces inflammation of the airways. It’s not recommended if you have diabetes or kidney disorders.

OPropolis is collected by bees to disinfect the hive, and it has antiviral and antibacterial benefits. It’s good for boosting the immune system to guard against colds and infections, or in lozenge form for sore throats. You should avoid it if you have asthma or are allergic to bee products or aspirin.

Q

uercetin is an antioxidant and antiinflammatory that’s helpful for allergies such as asthma and hay fever. It protects against upper respiratory tract infections, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and hardening of the arteries, and it can also improve athletic performance. mega-3 is found in oily fish and protects against heart disease, helps brain function and lowers the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, maintains eyesight and aids the absorption of essential vitamins. Its anti-inflammatory properties mean it’s also good if you suffer with asthma, eczema, psoriasis and arthritis. Avoid if you have angina.

ST Ut John’s Wort is believed to help relieve mild to moderate depression and anxiety. It can also help with PMT and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Supplements are available from health food stores and pharmacies including boots.com, hollandandbarrett.com and garden.co.uk. Talk to your GP or pharmacist before taking herbal medication as it could mask the symptoms of a more serious illness, or may not be suitable if you have certain conditions, are on other medication, are pregnant or are breast-feeding. Do not exceed the recommended dose unless directed by your GP.

Step up to the plate

Fancy some tasty grub from one of your favourite restaurants, but from the comfort of your own sofa? Plateaway is your new go-to. The website features 13 (and counting!) different restaurants, which are each offering a simple but special ‘make your own’ kit, so you can whip up restaurant-quality food for yourself and your family to tuck into. Companies getting involved include SushiDog, Lords Of Poke, Blondies Kitchen, and – our personal fave – the delicious Patty&Bun. What are you waiting for?!

The Patty&Bun Burger and Vegan Burger Meal Kit, from £25, plateaway.com

Time to buy

It’s earned its reputation as one of the best fitness watches on the market and it’s not hard to see why.You can track your workouts, keep check of your heart rate and get notifications on your activity. Not only that, but you’ll always stay connected to your phone as you can receive and answer calls and text messages, or listen to all your best tunes via Apple Music. Available in black and white and compatible with iPhone 6s or later with iOS 13 or later.

Apple Watch Series 3, £229, ao.com