Our bodies need iron. Not the sort used in barbells, weights and stream trains but the essential mineral we get from our food. And especially so if you're a teen, an athlete or a woman — even more so if you are pregnant. Read on for my outline of what iron does in the body, how much you need and where can you get it.

Always tired? Dragging yourself around? Always got a sniffle or a cold? Poor concentration? The reason could be that you’re low on iron. Iron-deficiency anaemia is the most common nutrition deficiency problem in the world and is a significant health issue for many women today, especially busy women on the go.

A. Energy density means the ratio of kilojoules/calories you get from a given weight or volume of a food. It's really how many kilojoules/calories you can fit into a mouthful!

A. If  you're having trouble sleeping or experiencing an upset stomach (acidity,  indigestion), headaches, shakiness or palpitations (coffee 'jitters'), then  excess caffeine could well be the reason.

I find it pays to plan for the week ahead especially if you’re trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. On a Sunday night, for instance, I like to make up one of these five healthy, high-fibre lunches to grab as I head out the door the next morning. It saves me time and money and keeps me out of the food court and away from fattening and fatty nachos, fries, pizza and other fast food.

Love coffee? Can't get going in the morning without your java fix? Sipping a short black or espresso is a common way for busy people to recharge their batteries or get through their workload but how much is too much? What are the tell-tale symptoms that you're overdoing caffeine?

There's nothing as refreshing and relaxing as a cup of tea. It's my favourite hot drink by a long way and one I look forward to every day. I drink almost every type of tea there is. English Breakfast with milk is my favourite but I'm also partial to a delicate Ceylon and most things herbal like lemon and ginger or anything with a little peppermint. The only tea I'm not fond of is Earl Grey.

I love good food. It tastes delicious, adds pleasure to life and helps us celebrate good (and not-so-good) times. Importantly it gives our bodies the energy and nutrients to stay alive and thrive. Not to mention allowing children to grow properly or pregnant women to create a healthy new bub!