Superfoods: fruit and veg

Superfoods: blackcurrants

Blackcurrants contain three times as much vitamin C as oranges. They’re also rich in antioxidants known as bioflavonoids, which could help to boost your immune system.

Vitamin C also plays a part in preventing back problems. Back pain often comes down to problems with the discs, which act like 'cushions' between our vertebrae. ‘Discs are a bit like tyres, but with water inside them instead of air,’ explains osteopath Gavin Burt. ‘As we get older, we gradually lose that water and they deflate a little.’ One way to keep the discs moist and plumped up, says Burt, is to get enough vitamin C, because vitamin C helps the tissues to renew and stay healthy.

Natalie Savona, nutritionist and author of ‘Wonderfoods’ (Quadrille, £12.99) suggests this delicious smoothie: whiz together a banana, 2 heaped tablespoons of blackcurrants, a little natural yoghurt and some apple juice.