Food scientists in Taiwan report capsaicin — the natural compound that gives red pepper its spicy kick — can reduce the growth of fat cells. Toss it in stir fries, add to your pasta and sauce or enjoy it raw and crunchy in salads.

Regular neck massage can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease according to research from Leeds University which found that signals from the neck play a key role in helping the brain maintain blood pressure, heart rate and breathing when we change posture, for example when standing up. When these signals stop because the neck is still and not moving we can suffer from problems with blood pressure and balance.

Office workers have a higher risk of developing potentially fatal blood clots, say the Medical research Institute in New Zealand. So nip to the loo or get a drink of water every half an hour or so and always leave your desk to have lunch.