Blueberries may halt and even reverse age related mental decline according to scientists at Tufts University in Boston, America.

Blueberries have the highest antioxidant content of the most commonly eaten fruits. Another recent study found that strawberries could be the key to optimum brain power.

It’s festive to use sweets, candied fruits, nuts, cheese balls and other condiments to decorate the house but do something different this year.

Instead use scented sachets, pine cones and primitive crafts that are inedible. The same goes for gift giving. Instead of sweets and chocolate give your friends an arrangement of dried flowers, a simple pine cone wreath or a framed picture and encourage them to do the same for you.

Avocado is high in iron, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and E. It’s also rich in oils that rejuvenate your skin, reduce eye puffiness, and leave skin soft, smooth, and nourished.

• ½ cup non-instant oatmeal

• 1 cup mashed avocado

• 1-2 tablespoons honey

Apply to face and leave on for 15–30 minutes. Wash off with warm water.