In this special issue, the editors of BBC Focus Magazine put natural remedies under the microscope. From acupuncture to yoga, argan oil to zinc, we ask scientists which techniques and treatments will help you live a happier, healthier life and which you ought to avoid.

Inside you will find: - The scientific verdict on current health trends - Expert opinion from world-leading researchers - Straightforward tips and tricks to stay healthy - Insights on the future of medicine and well-being

WELCOME

HEALTH & FITNESS • NATURAL WAYS TO ENJOY LIFE TO THE FULLEST

The Science of Superfoods • Kale and chia, goji berries and blueberries, salmon and spinach. JAMIE MILLAR investigates the science behind whether superfoods are the magic bullet that can cure all our ills, and which ones deserve their ‘super’ prefix

Inflated health benefits • The chia seed is a good example of how claims about superfoods can grow out of all proportion

Everyday heroes • They’re not new or exotic, and they don’t always grab the headlines. But if these widely available ‘superfoods’ aren’t already in your kitchen, they should be

Health Hack or Quack • In this A-Z of popular herbal remedies, LUIS VILLAZON sorts fact from fiction, revealing which work and which are pure hype

THE POWER OF BACTERIA • Microorganisms are the perfect natural remedy to fend off many a malady. NICOLA DAVIS reveals how these tiny bugs protect your health – and even affect your mood

Small but mighty • Most bacteria are just a few micrometres in length – smaller than red blood cells

Gut feeling • Probiotics and prebiotics have alleged health benefits for us. But what are the differences between them?

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME • Microbes don’t just affect our mood (see page 26), they’re also key to keeping us healthy. TOM IRELAND reveals a surprising picture of the bugs found around the home, and how each family has its own personal zoo of bacteria

Microbial hotspots in our homes • Our perception of hygiene often bears little relation to the reality of what microbes live where. Here’s a rundown of some of the most colonised areas

EXERCISE A cure for all ills • Our ability to run, ride, swim, and play sport offers us a wealth of health benefits. ROB KEMP looks at how it can combat many physical and psychological ailments

Hit the highs • Running has been shown to release endorphins and aid with sleep

Keep your heart healthy • Walk a minimum of 150 minutes a week to lower your risk of heart disease

Defend against depression • Exercise stimulates the production of mood-lifting serotonin

Beat brittle bones • Regular bone and muscle strengthening exercise slows bone density loss

Keep it up • Sexual function, and problems such as impotence, may be given a helping hand by regular workouts

Combat disease • Exercise can help in the fight against cancer and diabetes

Fend off fat • Exercise burns calories, which inevitably aids in weight loss, but running also stems the production of the ‘hunger hormone’

Stay sharp • Exercise keeps us mentally fit too

Natural exercise supplements • Dr. Emma Derbyshire, an expert in nutritional physiology at Manchester Metropolitan University, reveals natural exercise supplements that can make your workout more effective

A HELPING HAND • Months of queasiness, topped off by a 24-hour (plus) labour. Many mums have had to deal with the hardships of pregnancy, followed by a harrowing birth. ZOE CORMIER investigates natural ways to make the experience easier

20 STRESS BUSTERS • Over half of us now face the crucible of urban commutes, increased working hours and less job satisfaction. With things only set to become more stressful, ALEX HARRIS...