50 SIMPLE HEALTH TIPS - Part Three (21 -30)

21.  Try Triphala

Avoid constipation and stay regular with Triphala, an Ayurvedic blend of three fruits that is believed to help tone the gastrointestinal tract. Look for capsules of Triphala and follow package directions.

22.  Make Small Talk

Engaging in casual conversation with others may help keep you as sharp as doing a word puzzle, according to some studies. Just 10 minutes of daily chatter appears to improve mental function and preserve memory.

23.  Befriend a Bottle

For heel and arch pain, try stretching your foot by rolling it over a rolling pin or a bottle.

24.  Arm Yourself with Arnica

Homeopathic creams, gels, and ointments that contain arnica, a flower similar to the daisy, have long been used to relieve swelling and bruising. Rub into the affected area, but stop using if you develop skin irritation.

25.  Go for GLA

If you've ruled out other causes of hair loss, such as stress, overuse of hair-care products, and certain medications and diseases such as hypothyroidism, consider supplementing with evening primrose oil. It's a good source of gamma-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid that's needed for hair growth and is hard to get from your diet. Experts recommend taking 500 milligrams twice a day; expect to wait eight weeks to see results.

    

26.  Go Natural

Avoid products that can damage or dry out your fingernails, such as formaldehyde-containing polishes and acetone-filled removers.

27.  Eat Japanese Food

In addition to following good dental hygiene, you can help prevent cavities by adding more shiitake mushrooms and wasabi to your diet. Both foods contain compounds that help fight the bacteria that cause plaque and cavities.

28.  Consider Black Cohosh

Evidence is mixed, but several studies have found that women who take the herb black cohosh during menopause may experience fewer and milder hot flashes. Talk to your doctor about whether it's right for you; if so, choose a well-studied brand such as Remifemin.

29.  Hydrate

To treat an acute migraine, drink a full glass of water -- dehydration can trigger headaches. Even if you need to take a medication for the pain, try wrapping your head with an Ace bandage so that it covers your eyes, then lie down and breathe deeply. This often helps the pain pass more quickly.

30.  Try Acupressure

Calm a queasy stomach with this quick acupressure trick: Use your index and middle fingers to press down on the groove between the tendons that run from the base of your palm to your wrist. Wristbands that apply pressure to this spot are available at drugstores and online.